What is the most specific exam finding for diagnosing peritonitis?

Rigidity (involuntary contraction of the abdominal muscles) is the most specific exam finding for diagnosing peritonitis.

What is a Peritonitic abdomen?

Overview. Peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneum — a silk-like membrane that lines your inner abdominal wall and covers the organs within your abdomen — that is usually due to a bacterial or fungal infection. There are two types of peritonitis: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.

What does peritonitis look like on CT scan?

Usually localized peritonitis is characterized by a small sized fluid-like collection surrounded by smoothly thickened and enhancing peritoneum abutting the involved gastrointestinal (GI) tract; these findings are associated with increased density within the adjacent mesentery.

What labs are elevated with peritonitis?

Peritoneal fluid analysis. If you have peritonitis, examination of this fluid may show an increased white blood cell count, which typically indicates an infection or inflammation. A culture of the fluid may also reveal the presence of bacteria.

Is gastro life threatening?

Gastroenteritis can lead to serious or life-threatening complications in some cases, including dehydration and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Will a CT scan show peritonitis?

Main points. Acute peritonitis presents with nonspecific clinical and laboratory features. To date multidetector CT represents the best imaging modality to evaluate patients with acute abdominal pain. In this setting, radiologists should be aware of CT findings indicative of acute peritoneal diseases.

Does peritonitis show on CT scan?

Why is peritonitis a critical emergency?

Peritonitis is the inflammation of abdominal membranes, most commonly due to bacterial infection. Peritonitis is life threatening if not treated promptly. Treatment options include hospitalisation, antibiotics and surgery.