Peritonitis; spontaneous

Alternative names:

spontaneous peritonitis

Treatment:

Treatment depends on the cause of the peritonitis. Surgery is indicated in the unlikely presence of appendicitis or repair of a perforation (hole). Antibiotics are given to control infection, and dehydration is treated by intravenous therapy. Hospitalization is common.

Expectations (prognosis):

The infection can usually be treated, but the outcome is usually poor because of underlying liver disease. Affected individuals often respond to antibiotics but may still have a poor outcome.

Complications:

• abscess development
• intestinal obstruction from scar tissue
• hepatorenal syndrome
• hepatic encephalopathy

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of peritonitis; this can quickly become an emergency situation!