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Definition

Peritonitis is an inflammation or infection of the peritoneum. The peritoneum is a thin tissue lining that covers the inside of the abdominal cavity. It also covers the outside of the intestines and other abdominal organs.

There are several types:

Primary
Secondary
Peritoneal dialysis related

Peritonitis is a serious condition. It requires immediate treatment. If not promptly treated, it can be fatal.

Causes

Primary peritonitis—occurs when there is a buildup of fluid in the abdomen. This is called ascites. It is caused by chronic liver disease, among other conditions.

Secondary peritonitis—caused by bacteria that enter the abdominal cavity. Can be due to an injury or a condition, such as a ruptured appendix.

Secondary Peritonitis

Dialysis-related peritonitis—caused by bacteria that enter the peritoneal cavity during or after peritoneal dialysis (a treatment for kidney disease).

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for peritonitis include:

Abdominal penetration or trauma
Immune compromise
Blood in the abdomen
Ruptured appendix
Peptic ulcer
Colitis
Diverticulitis
Gangrene of the bowel
Pancreatitis
Pelvic inflammatory disease
Inflamed gallbladder
Recent surgery
Tubes or shunts in the abdomen
Cortisone drugs

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

Severe pain or tenderness in the abdomen
Pain in the abdomen that is worse with motion
Bloating of the abdomen
Constipation
Fever
Nausea and vomiting
Weakness or dizziness
Shortness of breath
Rapid pulse or breathing rate
Dehydration—signs include dry skin and lips, decreased urine production

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include:

Blood tests
Analysis of fluids from the peritoneum
Abdominal x-rays to look for signs of inflammation
Laparotomy—surgery to open and examine the abdomen

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause. It may include:

Surgery to repair openings in the skin surface or to remove damaged tissue
Antibiotics to treat infection
Replacement of fluids

Prevention

There are no guidelines for preventing peritonitis.

RESOURCES:

American Gastroenterological Association

http://www.gastro.org

The American College of Gastroenterology

http://www.acg.gi.org

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Health Canada

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index_e.html

The Canadian Association of Gastroenterology (CAG)

http://www.cag-acg.org/default.aspx

References:

Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine. Gale Group; 2000.

Textbook of Gastroenterology. 4th ed. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2003.

Last reviewed February 2008 by Daus Mahnke, MD

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Peritonitis