peritonitis
Pronunciation: pair-ih-tuh-NYE-tis
Inflammation of the peritoneum, often requiring urgent surgical intervention and intensive care management.
Full Definition
Peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneal membrane lining the abdominal cavity, classified as primary (spontaneous) or secondary (following perforation, anastomotic leak, or contamination). In surgical critical care, patients with peritonitis often present with septic shock requiring aggressive resuscitation, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and surgical source control. Clinical signs include abdominal pain, rigidity, rebound tenderness, and systemic inflammatory response. Delayed recognition can lead to multiple organ failure and death.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with pancreatitis (pancreatic inflammation) or cholangitis (bile duct infection).
In Context
- "CT scan showed signs of peritonitis with free air and fluid collection." — Radiology interpretation
- "Secondary peritonitis from perforated diverticulitis requires emergency surgery." — Emergency surgery consultation