Practolol peritonitis. A study of 16 cases and a survey of small bowel function in patients taking beta adrenergic blockers.

Sixteen patients with practolol peritonitis are described. Dense peritoneal thickening and adhesions caused small bowel stasis and obstruction with characteristic radiology and histology. The disease was best treated by surgery though complications were frequent and three of 16 patients died. Ocular and skin involvement were common. Fifty four asymptomatic patients who had taken a beta adrenoceptor blocking drug for more than 12 months were studied. Seven were found to have radiological abnormalities of the small bowel. These changes were associated with propranolol, oxprenolol and practolol therapy. It is not known whether they are related to practolol peritonitis.