Peritoneal sample
Peritoneal sample


Peritonitis - secondary

Alternative Names:
Secondary peritonitis

Treatment:
Surgical treatment is usually necessary to remove sources of infection such as infected bowel, inflamed appendix, or an abscess. General treatment includes intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and use of medications to treat pain.

Expectations (prognosis):
The outcome depends on the underlying cause, the duration of symptoms before treatment, and the general health of the patient. Outcomes can range from complete recovery to overwhelming infection and death, depending on these factors.

Complications:


Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of peritonitis. This is a serious condition that typically requires emergency medical treatment.


Review Date: 7/18/2002
Reviewed By: Julie A. Miller, M.D., Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.