Abdominal Cocoon: Case Report and Literature Review

Abdominal cocoon is a rare condition characterized by total or partial encapsulation of the small bowel by a fibro collagenous membrane (cocoon) leading to acute or chronic bowel obstruction. Diagnosis is usually incidental at laparotomy. Imaging plays an important role in disease management. There are well-defined radiologic clues in the diagnosis of abdominal cocoon. A high index of clinical suspicion may be generated by the recurrent character of small bowel ileus combined with relevant imaging findings and lack of other plausible etiologies, as it may prevent a “surprise” upon laparotomy and result in proper management.