Severe genital edema is a well-described complication of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Leakage of dialysate fluid from defects in the peritoneum may occur from clinically detectable and undetectable inguinal hernias, defects at the catheter insertion site, or other defects in the peritoneal membrane. We describe 3 patients (who underwent five surgical procedures), illustrating the complexity of the problem. In 2 patients, unsuccessful surgical repairs (1 catheter replacement, 1 hernia repair) were performed based on misleading radiologic findings using intraperitoneal contrast without computerized tomography (CT) scanning. The use of CT scanning with intraperitoneal contrast led to the correct diagnosis and prompt surgical correction in both patients so studied. One patient had leakage from a clinically undetectable inguinal hernia, and the other had a peritoneal defect at the Tenckhoff insertion site which was only demonstrated following a period of upright posture with a 3-liter exchange. Our experience and a review of the literature convinces us that a CT scan of the abdomen utilizing radiocontrast material added to the dialysate accurately identifies the site of leakage in CAPD patients who develop genital edema. Thus, the CT scan can help avoid unnecessary surgery and prolonged hospitalization in CAPD patients who develop genital edema.
One of the most difficult dilemmas in critical care medicine involves a patient who is obviously critically
ill, yet a whole spectrum of tests and evaluations performed on such a subject fail to reveal the precise nature of
the pathophysiological process. A number of noninvasive techniques have been developed within the last decade or
two which most frequently correctly and quickly assess the character and site of the disease. Nevertheless, there are
times when even the most sophisticated technology fails to reveal the true nature of clinical defects. The following
clinico-pathologic conference deals with such very deleterious occurrence.
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