Acute peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneal membrane caused by bacterial infection, often as a complication of liver failure. Symptoms include abdominal tenderness, distention, and nausea. Treatment involves antibiotics, hospitalization, and surgery in severe cases. Untreated peritonitis can lead to life-threatening conditions.
Acute peritonitis is sudden inflammation of the peritoneal membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and protects the abdominal organs. Considered a potentially life-threatening condition, this form of peritonitis usually occurs in the presence of a serious bacterial infection. Treatment for acute peritonitis usually depends on the severity and presentation of the infection and generally involves the administration of antibiotic drugs. If symptoms are ignored, the infection can spread, leading to worsening symptoms and ultimately life-threatening complications.
Commonly called spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), acute peritonitis generally occurs as a complication of ascites or fluid accumulation within the abdominal cavity, due to liver failure. The presence of various chronic diseases that affect liver function, including cirrhosis, hepatitis, and some types of cancer, can contribute to the development of ascites. The excess fluid that builds up with nowhere to go eventually becomes invasive to the peritoneum and abdominal organs. Prolonged presence of ascites becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, contributing to the development of bacterial infections, which can lead to the acute development of peritonitis.
A diagnosis of peritonitis can be made by the administration of a variety of diagnostic tests administered to evaluate liver function. In most cases, abdominal distention can be detected with a physical and palpatory examination of the affected area. A battery of blood tests and imaging may be ordered to evaluate the individual’s white blood cell count, evaluate the condition and function of the digestive tract, and identify any organ perforation or intestinal obstruction. A culture of the peritoneal fluid may also be done to confirm and identify the responsible bacterial presence.
Peritonitis will often present with abdominal tenderness, distention, and nausea. Some individuals may develop decreased urine output or notice that they are unable to have a bowel movement. It is not uncommon for some individuals to experience widespread joint pain, as is commonly associated with the flu. Additional signs of acute peritonitis may include excessive thirst, pronounced fatigue, and fever.
Typically, an antibiotic medication is prescribed to be taken in its entirety to eliminate any traces of infection and prevent it from spreading or recurring. Individuals with severe peritonitis may require hospitalization to stabilize their condition and treat any underlying comorbidities. Rarely, surgery may be needed to remove any abscess formation that may occur as a complication of an extensive infection. Left untreated, peritonitis can contribute to the development of hepatic encephalopathy and sepsis, both of which are life-threatening conditions that can lead to widespread organ failure and premature maturity.
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