|
The membrane that covers the abdominal cavity and the different organs inside the abdomen is called peritoneum and its inflammation can cause a severe peritonitis. |
 Zoom
The membrane that covers the abdominal cavity and the different organs inside the abdomen is called peritoneum and its inflammation can cause a severe peritonitis.
The function of the peritoneum is to protect the structure of the abdomen’s interior and, at the same time, allow and facilitate the essential movement of the stomach and the intestines to carry out the digestive process. This membrane is transparent, elastic and thin, although it is very resistant and sensitive. Any type of injury will cause an intense pain.
Causes
The injuries in the peritoneum can be caused by bacterial infections, wounds or the effect of irritating substances. The peritoneum gets swollen (peritonitis) and an intense, acute pain appears around the navel or in the low right area of the abdomen.
The peritonitis can be caused by the perforation of a swollen appendix (severe appendicitis) or when the pus invades the abdominal cavity, causing inflammation and an infection in the peritoneum. Another frequent cause of peritonitis is a perforated duodenal ulcer. Due to the perforation, the gastric acids and the bile get to the peritoneum area and produce injuries that get easily infected. Knife injuries or severe contusions, such as blows, punches and kicks, may also cause peritonitis.
Adherence and ascites can also affect the peritoneum. Adherence occurs when one of the organs adhere to the abdominal wall, causing an intestinal obstruction, that in some cases requires a surgery.
Ascites is the excess of fluid that lubricates the peritoneum. It usually appears as a complication of a peritonitis, due to an hepatic disease or a tumour. Since the abdomen is very distended, it causes no pain.
Symptoms and Treatment
The most common symptoms of peritonitis are: abdominal pain, no movement of the abdominal wall, vomit, quick pulse and low blood pressure.
Usually, the peritonitis is surgically treated and the origin of the problem is solved by removing the appendix or repairing the perforation caused by an ulcer. |
|
