Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
peritoneal carcinomatosis
Widespread metastatic cancer involving the peritoneal surfaces of the abdomen.
Full Definition
Peritoneal carcinomatosis refers to the dissemination of malignant cells throughout the peritoneal cavity, resulting in multiple tumor implants on peritoneal surfaces. This condition most commonly arises from primary gastrointestinal, gynecologic, or primary peritoneal malignancies. The cancer spreads via transcoelomic seeding, direct extension, or lymphatic/hematogenous routes. Surgical management may include cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in selected patients. The presence of peritoneal carcinomatosis significantly impacts prognosis and treatment decisions.
In Context
- "Extensive peritoneal carcinomatosis was noted throughout the abdomen during exploratory laparotomy." — Operative report
- "The patient is a candidate for cytoreductive surgery given the limited peritoneal carcinomatosis." — Multidisciplinary team note
Also known as
peritoneal metastases
carcinomatosis peritonei
Don't confuse with
peritonitis
peritoneal adhesions