Definition:
Peritonitis is defined as an the swelling or inflammation of the serous membrane which lines a part of our abdominal cavity and the viscera it contains. This mebrane is called peritoneum. The swelling may be localised in just one part or covering generally the whole lining of the cavity. Peritonitis usually manifest an acute course which may depend largely on either localised or generalised infection. People with Peritonitis are usually treated with surgical emergency.
Diagnosis:
Clinical grounds is basically the most often used method in diagnosing Peritonitis. Cinical manifestations mentioned are checked if they suggest peritonitis. Abdominal X-rays are also used which may reveal a dilated and oedematous intestines.
Treatment:
Treatments for Peritonitis will depend on how severe the patient's state is. It may include general supportive measures administration like vigorous rehydration of the intravenous and correction of disturbances of the electrolyte. Antibiotics are also given intravenously. Although antibiotics may also be directly applied through infusion into the peritoneum. Therapy will also be given to the patients as part of medication. Surgery or laparotomy is also needed to fully explore and lavage the affected peritoneum. Surgery also will allow the physician to correct any damage of the cavity causing the peritonitis.
Symptoms and Signs:
Most often Peritonitis manifests mainly with an acute pain of the abdomen, guarding, and tenderness. These symptoms are usually exacerbated by moving the patients peritoneum like when the patient coughs, elicits the Blumberg sign, or flexes his hips. Determining which part of the Peritoneum depends usually whether the peritonitis is also localised like in the case of appendicitis and diverticulitis. It can also be generalised to affect the whole of the abdomen. The pain commonly starts right at the site causing the disease. Peritonitis is also known as an example of an acute abdomen disorder.
Causes:
Infected peritonitis is caused by the perforation of the hollow viscus. Just like the perforation of distal oesophagus or of the stomach or even perforation of the intestine parts like appendicitis and diverticulitis. Other causes for the disease may include ingestion of some sharp objects like a sharp fish bone, a toothpick or some particles of glass shard. Trauma can also be the cause of perforation. In cases as perforation by a catheter or an endoscope, and in some cases anastomotic leakage.
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