Peritonitis

Question 1

What is peritonitis?

Answer 1

Defined as inflammation of the localized or generalized peritoneum. The lining of the inner wall of the abdomen and cover of the abdominal organs. Typically when someone says peritonitis they are usually referring to secondary peritonitis.

Question 2

What is the common peritonitis?

Answer 2

Secondary peritonitis

Question 3

What is primary peritonitis?

Answer 3

Inflammation of the peritoneum without other intraabdominal process

Question 4

How do patients with peritonitis present?

Answer 4

These patients present as being very Ill especially if they have diffuse peritonitis.
Fever and tachycardia will almost always be present in peritonitis.

Question 5

How do patients present with peritonitis cont…

Answer 5

Fetal position or supine and do not want to move.
Board like abdomen is instantly indicative of peritonitis.

Question 6

What should you look for in imaging?

Answer 6

Free air under diaphragm indicate a perforation

Question 7

How do you treat peritonitis?

Answer 7

All patients with suspected peritonitis need antibiotics. Ertapenem 1g every 24 hours.