Selkäonteloon

Selkäonteloon, also known as the peritoneal cavity, is the space within the abdomen that contains many of the digestive organs. It is lined by a serous membrane called the peritoneum, which consists of two layers: the parietal peritoneum, which lines the abdominal wall, and the visceral peritoneum, which covers the organs themselves. The space between these two layers is the peritoneal cavity.

This cavity is a potential space, meaning it normally contains only a small amount of lubricating fluid that allows organs to move freely against each other during digestion and other bodily functions. The peritoneum secretes this fluid, known as peritoneal fluid. Organs within the selkäonteloon include the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, spleen, and parts of the reproductive organs.

The selkäonteloon plays a crucial role in the body's defense mechanisms. Its large surface area and rich blood supply allow it to absorb substances and help fight off infections. Conditions affecting the selkäonteloon can range from inflammation, such as peritonitis, to the accumulation of fluid, known as ascites, or the presence of cancerous cells. Understanding the anatomy and function of the selkäonteloon is essential for diagnosing and treating a wide range of abdominal pathologies.