Abdominal cocoon. An unusual cause of intestinal obstruction.

We report a case of abdominal cocoon in a young male patient, presenting with acute intestinal obstruction and abdominal mass. This is a rare acquired condition of the peritoneum in which the small bowel is encased either partially or totally by a dense fibrous membrane. Operative findings, perioperative imaging and treatment guidelines are discussed. A better awareness of this condition may facilitate preoperative diagnosis; prevent inadvertent bowel damage at laparoscopy and unnecessary bowel resection at laparotomy.