Localized genital edema occurred in 8 of 81 patients (10 per cent) undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. Underlying causes included defects in the inguinal canal and noninguinal peritoneal leaks that were localized with clinical, radiographic and scintigraphic techniques. Management included temporary cessation of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis exchanges in half of the patients, particularly those with recently inserted catheters. Surgical repair was recommended in all cases when inguinal defects were identified. Edema resolved permanently in 6 patients and all patients were able to remain on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.