The abdominal cocoon - An unusual cause of intestinal obstruction in adolescents

The abdominal cocoon is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction in adolescent girls caused by encasement of the small intestine in fibrous tissue. Only 15 cases have been reported in the English literature so far. This is a report of another two patients managed at the Aga Khan University Hospital. The correct diagnosis is often not suspected, resulting in delays in the treatment of this condition. Following simple surgical release of the entrapped bowel, these patients do well.