Weekly intraperitoneal steroid infusion to treat recurrent ascites in a patient with early stage of peritoneal dialysis–related encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis: A case report

Abstract

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) is a rare and potentially fatal complication of long-term peritoneal dialysis (PD). EPS-induced large volume and recurrent ascites represents a challenging condition. We report a 51-year-old man with kidney failure treated with PD for 13 years who eventually developed early stage of EPS accompanied with poor intake and recurrent ascites. After management including discontinuing PD and switching to haemodialysis, as well as oral steroids and tamoxifen administration, the patient had refractory ascites. An intervention of weekly intraperitoneal steroid infusion with methylprednisolone was implemented for a year. Gradually, we observed a reduction in ascites drainage, an improvement of clinical symptoms and the patient’s nutritional status. The PD catheter was successfully removed as there was no recurrence of ascites. Intraperitoneal corticosteroid administration represents a new intervention for patients with early stage of EPS and recurrent ascites after PD cessation.