Sonographic features of tuberculous peritonitis.

In order to determine the spectrum of possible sonographic abnormalities in tuberculous peritonitis (TBP), the sonograms of patients with proven disease were compared retrospectively with surgical or laparoscopic findings. The sensitivity of ultrasound for the detection of the various pathologic features of TBP was calculated. Free or loculated intraabdominal fluid, intraabdominal abscess, ileocecal mass, and retroperitoneal lymph node enlargement were most frequently detected by ultrasound. Mesenteric thickening, adherent loops of bowel, and omental thickening may also be seen, but are infrequently detected and should be actively sought in patients in whom the diagnosis is entertained.