Peritoneoscopy in the diagnosis of tuberculous peritonitis.

Seventy-four patients with tuberculous peritonitis were examined by peritoneoscopy (laparoscopy). The characteristic features were uniform miliary tubercles studding the visceral and parietal peritoneum together with numerous adhesions between bowel loops, liver capsule, and abdominal walls. Guided biopsy yielded a definitive diagnosis in 56 cases. Special precautions are urged to avoid an increased risk of complications by peritoneoscopy and biopsy in tuberculous peritonitis.