Final answer:
Peritonitis is the inflammation of the peritoneum, a serous membrane in the abdomen, and is often caused by a breach in the alimentary canal or bacterial infections. It requires emergency treatment and can be life-threatening.
Step-by-step explanation:
Inflammation of the Peritoneum: Understanding Peritonitis
Inflammation of the peritoneum, a membrane that lines the abdomen and covers the abdominal organs, is known as peritonitis. This condition can occur due to a breach in the wall of the alimentary canal, which allows substances such as gastric juices or blood to enter the peritoneal cavity, leading to chemical or hemorrhagic peritonitis. Additionally, bacterial infections from conditions like appendicitis, colonic diverticulitis, and pelvic inflammatory disease can result in severe peritonitis, which is often life-threatening and requires emergency surgery and antibiotics. Despite advancements in medical treatments, the mortality rate for peritonitis remains significant, ranging from 30 to 40 percent.
The peritoneum itself consists of the parietal peritoneum lining the abdominal wall and the visceral peritoneum enveloping the abdominal organs. These layers are separated by the peritoneal cavity, which contains a small amount of fluid that acts as a lubricant to minimize friction.