Question

What is the difference between the abdominal (abd) and peritoneal cavities?

A. Abdominal cavity is the space within the abdomen, and peritoneal cavity is a subset of the abdominal cavity.
B. Peritoneal cavity is the space within the abdomen, and abdominal cavity is a subset of the peritoneal cavity.
C. The terms are used interchangeably.
D. Abdominal cavity refers to the thoracic area, and peritoneal cavity refers to the abdominal area.

Answer 1

The abdominal cavity is the space within the abdomen that houses various organs such as the digestive organs and kidneys, while the peritoneal cavity is a fluid-filled subset of the abdominal cavity that is lined by the peritoneum, providing lubrication to the organs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The difference between the abdominal and peritoneal cavities lies in their anatomical definitions and spatial relations within the body. Option A states that the abdominal cavity is the space within the abdomen, which includes the region that houses the digestive organs and the kidneys, and the peritoneal cavity is a subset of this abdominal cavity. The peritoneal cavity, bounded by the visceral and parietal peritoneum, is the fluid-filled space within the abdominal cavity that provides lubrication to the organs. This option correctly describes the relationship between the two cavities.