Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
peritonitis
Pronunciation: pair-ih-toh-NY-tis
Inflammation of the peritoneum, often requiring emergency surgical intervention.
Full Definition
Peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneum, the membrane that lines the inner abdominal wall and covers most intra-abdominal organs. It can be primary (spontaneous) or secondary (due to perforation, infection, or trauma). Secondary peritonitis often requires emergency surgical intervention to address the underlying cause and provide source control. Clinical presentation includes severe abdominal pain, fever, and signs of systemic illness. The condition can rapidly progress to septic shock if untreated.
Usage
Usage note: Specify primary vs secondary peritonitis when known.
In Context
- "The patient developed generalized peritonitis following bowel perforation." — Clinical assessment
- "Emergency surgery was indicated for source control of peritonitis." — Surgical indication documentation
Also known as
abdominal sepsis
Don't confuse with
appendicitis
cholangitis