Chylous peritonitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the peritoneum, a thin membrane that lines the abdominal cavity. The term is spelled /kaɪˈluːs/ /ˌpɛrɪtəˈnaɪtɪs/ in International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The word "chylous" refers to a milky fluid that results from fat digestion in the intestines. The condition is rare and can occur due to trauma, blockage of the lymphatic system or other underlying medical conditions. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, and fluid accumulation in the abdomen. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause and supportive care.
Chylous peritonitis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation and infection of the peritoneum, which is the thin membrane that lines the abdominal cavity. This condition occurs when chyle, a milky fluid that is normally found in the lymphatic system, leaks into the peritoneal space.
Chyle is a fat-rich fluid that plays an important role in the absorption of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins. It is normally transported through the lymphatic vessels and eventually enters the bloodstream. However, when there is a disruption or damage to the lymphatic vessels or the thoracic duct (the main lymphatic vessel), chyle may leak into the peritoneum, leading to chylous peritonitis.
Common causes of chylous peritonitis include trauma or injury to the abdomen, certain surgical procedures, abdominal tumors, and infections. Symptoms of this condition may include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, fever, and weight loss.
Diagnosis of chylous peritonitis often involves imaging tests, such as CT scans or ultrasound, to identify the presence of chyle in the peritoneal cavity. A sample of the chylous fluid may also be obtained through a procedure called paracentesis for analysis.
Treatment for chylous peritonitis typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition, such as repairing lymphatic vessels or removing the source of infection or inflammation. In some cases, conservative management, including dietary modifications and medical therapy, may be sufficient. However, severe cases may require surgical intervention, such as lymphangiography or ligation of the thoracic duct, to redirect the flow of chyle and prevent further leakage into the peritoneum.
The word "chylous peritonitis" has its origins in Latin and Greek.
The term "chylous" comes from the Greek word "khulos" (χυλός), meaning "juice" or "liquid". In medical terminology, "chylous" refers to a milky fluid called chyle, which is composed of fat droplets and lymphatic fluid.
"Peritonitis", on the other hand, is derived from the Latin words "per" (through) and "teneo" (to hold). It refers to inflammation of the peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal cavity.