What is peritoneal fluid?

Peritoneal fluid is a substance responsible for lubrication of the abdominal wall and organs in the abdominal cavity. It helps to prevent friction between the organs in the pelvic cavity as they move while digesting food. The fluid consists of water, electrolytes, antibodies, white blood cells and biochemicals. Serous membrane is one that produces liquid. Peritoneal fluid is formed by a peritone with two layers. The first is a parietal peritoneum, which is connected to the abdominal wall. Here comes a liquid that line the abdominal wall. The second layer is the visceral peritoneum, which is woven around the internal organs located in the pelvic cavity. Peritoneal fluid, which protects the organs of the abdominal cavity, comes from visceral peritoneum. Without this fluid, their movement could cause irritation in this part of the body. This could lead to infection.

Although peritoneal fluid is extremely important, excess can have serious consequences. DisordersER, heart failure and ovarian cancer, breast, colon, lung, stomach and pancreas can stimulate excessive production of this fluid. The name used to describe the accumulation of excess fluid in the abdominal cavity is called ascites.

Due to the severity of diseases associated with excess peritoneal fluid, the identification of symptoms is important. Some of the common symptoms include abdominal giving out, breathing problems, feeling of difficulty or pressure, swollen legs and the presence of blood in vomiting. In individuals who may have cancer, symptoms may also include extremes and fatigue.

The first step in the diagnosis of excess fluid is usually a physical test of the doctor. If this condition is suspicious, ultrasound or CT scan can be pre -defined. Some other invasive procedures for detection of excess fluid include liver biopsy or remove some fluid for testing.

Treatment of surplusThe peritoneal fluid may include the use of diuretics to reduce its presence. Individuals suffering can also reduce their salt intake, which usually reduces fluid retention. In some cases, the fluid is removed by a syringe or short circuit. In cases where infection is present, antibiotics may be used.