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Peritoneal sample
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OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Peritonitis

Alternative Names:
Acute abdomen

Treatment:

The cause must be identified and treated promptly.

Treatment typically involves surgery and antibiotics. In cases associated with peritoneal dialysis, antibiotics may be infused through the dialysis catheter, but if the infection is severe, the catheter itself must often be removed.



Expectations (prognosis):
The outcome is often good with treatment, but can be poor without treatment. Sometimes the outcome is poor even with prompt and adequate treatment.

Complications:
Peritonitis can be life-threatening and cause a number of different complications, depending on the type.

Calling your health care provider:

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you have symptoms that may indicate peritonitis, as it is a medical emergency.



Review Date: 7/22/2002
Reviewed By: Julie A. Miller, M.D., Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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