Peritonea
Peritonea are the serous membranes that line the abdominal cavity and envelop the abdominal organs. They consist of the parietal peritoneum, which lines the cavity walls, and the visceral peritoneum, which covers most abdominal organs. The potential space between them is the peritoneal cavity, normally containing a small amount of lubricating serous fluid that reduces friction during movement of the viscera.
Most abdominal organs are intraperitoneal or retroperitoneal. The peritoneum forms folds such as mesenteries, omenta, and
Development and distribution: The peritoneum arises from the mesoderm during embryogenesis. Intraperitoneal organs are enclosed by
Functions: The peritoneum produces lubricating fluid, supports movement, provides immune defense through resident macrophages, and partitions
Clinical relevance: Peritoneal dialysis uses the peritoneal membrane for waste removal in kidney failure. Peritonitis is