Background:
Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (SEP) is a rare disorder known for chronic inflammation, which causes a dense fibrous membrane to form around the small intestine. The hallmark lesion is a thick, grey-white thick fibrous membrane that surrounds the small intestine. Because of the nonspecific symptoms, ultrasonography and radiography are important for diagnosis. However, definitive diagnosis is based on histopathology from the biopsy samples. Methods: A ten-year-old intact German Shepherd, weighing ۲۷ kg, was referred to the clinic. The dog had been suffering from anorexia, weight loss, and progressive abdominal distension for one month, accompanied by vomiting and melena. tachycardia, tachypnea, a body condition score of ۱ and over ۸% dehydration were noted. During clinical evaluation, the dog passed a
linear foreign body approximately one meter long through the feces. Complete blood count (CBC) and serum biochemistry analyses showed mild anemia and mild leukocytosis and elevated hepatic enzymes. Ultrasonographic examination detected a significant volume of fluid in the abdominal cavity; hence, no other structures could be detected. Ultimately, an exploratory laparotomy was performed. Approximately ۸ liters of serosal fluid were removed from the abdominal cavity using suction. Examination revealed that nearly all abdominal organs were enclosed within a thick fibrotic membrane. Due to the poor prognosis, euthanasia was performed. Tissue samples were collected for histopathology. Results: Histopathological findings revealed active hepatic capsulitis, lymphocytic enteritis with chronic serositis and chronic peritonitis, which are consistent with fibrotic encapsulation observed during surgery. Conclusion: This case highlights the rare occurrence in dogs of sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (SEP), which is secondary to chronic
linear foreign body obstruction in intestine. Timely surgical intervention is essential to improve the outcome of these patients and to avoid these rare complications. Pet owners should also be informed about the dangers of swallowing linear foreign bodies because, contrary to popular belief, these foreign objects are not easy to expel, and the consequences are much more serious.