Drug-induced sclerosing peritonitis.

The records and case reports of 20 patients presenting with practolol induced sclerosing peritonitis have been reviewed revealing striking similarities: symptoms and signs of bowel obstruction or the presence of a vague abdominal mass in a patient who is currently taking or has previously taken practolol should alert one to the possibility of sclerosing peritonitis as the cause. Skin or eye reactions attributed to practolol provide further strong support for the diagnosis. Although practolol has now been discontinued in New Zealand its effects may become manifest months or years later.