[Definition]  [Causes, Incidence and Risk Factors]  [Symptoms]  [Signs And Tests]  [Treatment]  [Expectations (Prognosis)]  [Complications]  [Calling Your Health Care Provider]  [Prevention] 

Definition

An inflammation of the peritoneum, the membrane that lines the wall of the abdomen and covers the organs.

Types of peritonitis include:

• Peritonitis; spontaneous
• Peritonitis; secondary
• Peritonitis; dialysis associated

Intraabdominal abscess (abdominal abscess)--a collection of pus in the abdomen--may cause peritonitis; before peritonitis develops it can still cause symptoms that are similar or identical to peritonitis.

• fluid in the abdomen
• inability to pass feces or gas
• abdominal distention
• abdominal pain
• abdominal tenderness
• distended abdomen
• fever
• low urine output
• nausea and vomiting
• point tenderness
• thirst

Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:

• cloudy dialysis fluid (if undergoing peritoneal dialysis)
• nausea & vomiting
• chills

Examination of the abdomen typically shows tenderness. The abdomen may feel firm and "board-like" and there may be extensive "guarding" (protective movements such as curling up or refusal to allow the abdomen to be touched).

The cause must be identified and treated promptly.

The outcome is often good with treatment, but can be poor without treatment. Sometimes the outcome is poor even with prompt and adequate treatment.

Peritonitis can be life threatening.

GO TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM OR CALL YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF YOU HAVE SYMPTOMS OF PERITONITIS!

Prevention depends on the cause. See the specific types of peritonitis.

The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.