Peritoneaalse

Peritoneaalse is the Dutch adjective meaning peritoneal and relates to the peritoneum, the serous membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers most abdominal organs. The term is used in medical contexts to describe structures, processes, or conditions associated with this membrane.

Anatomy and structure: The peritoneum consists of a simple layer of mesothelial cells supported by connective tissue. It forms two continuous sheets: the parietal peritoneum lining the abdominal wall and the visceral peritoneum enveloping organs such as the stomach, intestines, liver, and spleen. The potential space between these layers is the peritoneal cavity, which normally contains a small amount of lubricating fluid to reduce friction. The peritoneum also forms folds and attachments, including the mesentery, omenta (greater and lesser), and ligaments, which help suspend and organize abdominal structures.

Functions: The peritoneum provides a smooth, frictionless surface for organ movement, contributes to immune defense by housing macrophages and lymphatic channels, and aids fluid and fat transport. It plays a key role in wound healing and in processes such as peritoneal dialysis, where the peritoneal membrane serves as a semi-permeable barrier for waste removal and fluid exchange in kidney failure patients.

Clinical relevance: Inflammation of the peritoneum is peritonitis, a serious condition often requiring urgent care. Ascites refers to abnormal fluid accumulation in the peritoneal cavity, commonly due to liver disease, infection, or cancer. Peritoneal metastasis (peritoneal carcinomatosis) occurs when cancer spreads to the peritoneum. Peritoneal dialysis is a treatment option for renal failure in which the peritoneal membrane is used for dialysis.