Home About Shands For Healthcare Professionals Newsroom ShandsConnect Index
Search:


Peritoneal sample
Peritoneal sample
Abdominal organs
Abdominal organs
Gastroschisis repair  - series
Gastroschisis repair - series


Peritonitis

Definition:

Peritonitis is 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:

Intra-abdominal abscess (abdominal abscess) involves a collection of pus in the abdomen, which may cause peritonitis. Before peritonitis develops, the abscess may still cause symptoms similar or identical to peritonitis.


Review Date: 7/15/2004
Reviewed By: Hebe Molmenti, M.D., Ph.D., Private Practice specializing in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Illustrated Health Encyclopedia

En Español

Pregnancy Health Center

Shands Careguides

Surgeries and Procedures

Shands HealthCast