[Extra-thoracic sarcoidosis of the retroperitoneal lymph nodes and of the spleen with ascites. Comments on the problem of lymphatic obstruction (author's transl)].

Sarcoidosis without radiologically demonstrable intrathoracic changes is described, in which there was involvement of the retroperitoneal lymph nodes and of the spleen, together with ascites. Contrary to descriptions in the literature of the lymphographic findings in sarcoidosis, there is evidence of lymphatic obstruction and at operation fluid was found in the peritoneal cavity. The relationship between the lymphatic obstruction which was associated with low-grade peritoneal involvement and the increased amount of peritoneal fluid is discussed.