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Peritoneal sample
Peritoneal sample
Abdominal organs
Abdominal organs

Peritonitis
Definition:
An inflammation (irritation) of the peritoneum, the membrane that lines the wall of the abdomen and covers the abdominal organs.

Alternative Names:
Acute abdomen

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Types of peritonitis include: Intraabdominal abscess (abdominal abscess). This condition involves a collection of pus in the abdomen and may cause peritonitis. Before peritonitis develops, it can still cause symptoms that are similar or identical to peritonitis.
Symptoms:
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
Signs and tests:

Examination of the abdomen typically shows tenderness. The abdomen may feel firm and "board-like" and there may be extensive "guarding" (protective movements such as curling up or refusal to allow the abdomen to be touched).

Blood tests and X-rays or CT scans may be ordered.
Treatment:

The cause must be identified and treated promptly.

Treatment typically involves surgery and antibiotics. In cases associated with peritoneal dialysis, antibiotics may be infused through the dialysis catheter, but if the infection is severe, the catheter itself must often be removed.
Expectations (prognosis):
The outcome is often good with treatment, but can be poor without treatment. Sometimes the outcome is poor even with prompt and adequate treatment.
Complications:
Peritonitis can be life-threatening and cause a number of different complications, depending on the type.
Calling your health care provider:

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you have symptoms that may indicate peritonitis, as it is a medical emergency.
Prevention:
Prevention depends on the cause. See the specific types of peritonitis.
Review Date: 7/22/2002
Reviewed By: Julie A. Miller, M.D., Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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