Peritonitis; secondary

Alternative names:

secondary peritonitis

Definition:

An acute or chronic inflammation of the peritoneum (the membrane lining the abdominal cavity) that occurs because of entry of bacteria or enzymes into the peritoneum from the gastrointestinal or biliary (liver secretion) tract.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The causes of secondary peritonitis include:

• entry of bacteria into the peritoneum from a perforation (hole) in the gastrointestinal tract, as from a ruptured appendix
• severe chemical reactions from pancreatic enzymes or bile as a result of injury or perforation of the intestine or biliary tract

The intestine becomes distended with gas and fluid. Fluid accumulates when it is not reabsorbed in the normal way.

Secondary peritonitis often occurs in premature newborns who have necrotizing enterocolitis.