peritoneuma

Peritoneum, usually referred to simply as the peritoneum, is a continuous serous membrane that lines the abdominopelvic cavity and covers most abdominal organs. The term peritoneuma is not standard and is likely a misspelling or archaic variant of peritoneum.

Anatomy and structure: The peritoneum has two main layers: the parietal peritoneum, which lines the abdominal and pelvic walls, and the visceral peritoneum, which covers the surfaces of intraperitoneal organs. The potential space between these layers is the peritoneal cavity, normally containing a small amount of lubricating peritoneal fluid. The peritoneum forms folds such as mesenteries, omenta, and ligaments that suspend organs, provide conduits for vessels and nerves, and help stabilize the position of the intestines.

Functions: It produces and absorbs peritoneal fluid, allowing smooth sliding of viscera during movement and digestion. It serves as a barrier to infection and a reservoir of immune cells, including peritoneal macrophages. The peritoneum also acts as a conduit for blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves to abdominal organs and contributes to fluid and electrolyte homeostasis. Peritoneal surfaces are involved in procedures such as peritoneal dialysis, where dialysis fluid is placed into the cavity to remove waste products.

Clinical relevance: Inflammation of the peritoneum, peritonitis, can result from infection, irritation, or surgical contamination. Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, often related to liver disease or malignancy. The peritoneum can be involved in metastatic spread (peritoneal carcinomatosis) and is a key consideration in abdominal surgery and trauma. Developmentally, the peritoneum arises from mesodermal tissue and is innervated differently in its parietal and visceral components.