Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis in four dogs and a cat.

Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (SEP) was diagnosed in four dogs and one cat. Clinical signs included vomiting, abdominal pain, palpable abdominal mass, and ascites. The abdominal fluid was red-tinged and contained large numbers of red blood cells, macrophages, mixed inflammatory cells, reactive mesothelial cells, and fibroblasts. At surgery, the typical appearance was of multiple surfaces covered with granulation tissue or fibrous tissue or both. Multiple adhesions were often present. Causes of SEP included steatitis, fiberglass ingestion, and bacterial infection. Treatment included administration of antibiotic, corticosteroid, and diuretic medications. The major long-term management problems were chronic weight loss, ascites, and progression of concurrent disease.