peritoniiti

Peritonitis is a serious medical condition characterized by inflammation of the peritoneum, the serous membrane that lines the inner wall of the abdomen and covers the abdominal organs. This inflammation can be caused by infection, trauma, or other medical conditions.

The most common cause of peritonitis is a perforation or rupture of an abdominal organ. This can occur due to conditions such as a ruptured appendix, a perforated ulcer in the stomach or duodenum, or a ruptured diverticulum in the colon. When an organ perforates, its contents, which may contain bacteria or other infectious agents, leak into the peritoneal cavity, triggering a widespread inflammatory response.

Other causes include surgical procedures, where the peritoneum may be inadvertently injured or contaminated, or the spread of infection from other parts of the body. Peritoneal dialysis, a treatment for kidney failure, can also sometimes lead to peritonitis if the catheter site becomes infected. Certain medical conditions like pancreatitis or pelvic inflammatory disease can also cause inflammation of the peritoneum.

Symptoms of peritonitis typically include severe abdominal pain, tenderness, bloating, and fever. The pain often worsens with movement. Nausea, vomiting, and a decreased appetite are also common. In severe cases, peritonitis can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening systemic infection, and shock.

Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination, blood tests to check for signs of infection and inflammation, and imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds to identify the cause of the inflammation. Treatment depends on the underlying cause but often involves antibiotics to combat infection, and in many cases, surgery to repair the perforation or remove infected tissue. Prompt medical attention is crucial for a favorable outcome.