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Peritonitis

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

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

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
If you are diagnosed with peritonitis, follow your doctor's instructions.

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

Canadian Association of Gastroenterology http://www.cag-acg.org

Health Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index-eng.php

References

Feldman M, et al. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 8th ed. St. Louis: Mosby, 2005.

Olendorf D, Jeryan C, Boyden K. Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine. Detroit, MI: Gale Group Research Company; 2000.

Peritonitis. Mayo Clinic website. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/peritonitis/ds00990. Updated July 2009. Accessed July 24, 2009.

Townsend CM, et al. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 17th ed. Philadelphia: Saunders, 2004.

Yamada T, Alpers DH, et al. Textbook of Gastroenterology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2003.

Revision Information

  • Reviewer: Daus Mahnke, MD
  • Review Date: 10/2012 -
  • Update Date: 10/31/2012 -

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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