Medical Health Encyclopedia

Peritonitis


InjuryDiseasesNutritionPoison
SymptomsSurgeryTestSpecial Topic
Abdominal organs
Abdominal organs
Peritoneal sample
Peritoneal sample
Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention
Definition

Peritonitis is an inflammation (irritation) of the peritoneum, the thin tissue that lines the inner wall of the abdomen and covers most of the abdominal organs.


Alternative Names

Acute abdomen


Causes, incidence, and risk factors

A collection of pus in the abdomen, called an intra-abdominal abscess, may cause peritonitis.

See the specific types of peritonitis:



Review Date: 06/10/2010
Reviewed By: Shabir Bhimji MD, PhD, Specializing in Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Midland , TX Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).




Find a Therapist
PR Newswire