All about peritonitis  causes of peritonitis symptoms of peritonitis diagnosis of peritonitis treatments for peritonitis Articles in emergencies of digestive system - appendicitis gastrointestinal bleeding rectal bleeding ileus peritonitis |
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How is peritonitis diagnosed?
The healthcare provider will take a person's medical history and perform a physical exam. A diagnosis of peritonitis is usually based on symptoms. Discovering the underlying reason for the peritonitis, however, may require some work. A blood sample will be drawn in order to determine the white blood cell count. Because white blood cells are produced by the body in an effort to combat foreign invaders, the white blood cell count will be elevated in the case of an infection. A long, thin needle can be used to take a sample of fluid from the abdomen in an effort to diagnose primary peritonitis. The types of immune cells present are usually characteristic in this form of peritonitis. X-ray films may be taken if there is some suspicion that a perforation exists. In the case of a perforation, air will have escaped into the abdomen and will be visible on the picture. When a cause for peritonitis cannot be found, an open exploratory operation on the abdomen (laparotomy) is considered to be a crucial diagnostic procedure, and at the same time provides the opportunity to begin treatment. |
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More information on peritonitis
What is peritonitis? - Peritonitis is infection (or inflammation) of the peritoneum. A major cause of bacterial peritonitis is internal perforation of the gastrointestinal tract.
What causes peritonitis? - Peritonitis is often caused by a burst appendix or gallbladder, it can also result from a perforation in the wall of the stomach or intestine.
What are symptoms of peritonitis? - Symptoms of peritonitis include fever and abdominal pain. Other symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, and dehydration.
How is peritonitis diagnosed? - Diagnosis of peritonitis is usually based on symptoms. A blood sample will be drawn in order to determine the white blood cell count.
What're the treatments for peritonitis? - Treatment of peritonitis depends on the source of the peritonitis, but an emergency laparotomy is usually performed. |
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