PERITONEUM Meaning and
Definition
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The peritoneum is a delicate, serous membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers the organs within it. It is composed of two layers: the parietal peritoneum and the visceral peritoneum. The parietal peritoneum lines the inner surface of the abdominal wall, while the visceral peritoneum covers the organs, which are also referred to as intraperitoneal organs.
The peritoneum performs several vital functions in the body. It provides a protective barrier for the abdominal organs, preventing them from being damaged by friction or external forces. The peritoneal fluid that fills the potential space between the two layers lubricates the organs, allowing them to slide against each other during movements, such as breathing and digestion.
Furthermore, the peritoneum plays a crucial role in the immune response and defense mechanisms of the abdominal cavity. It contains specialized cells that can produce antibodies and phagocytize foreign substances or pathogens, helping to prevent infection and inflammation within the abdominal cavity.
Various conditions can affect the peritoneum, leading to diseases such as peritonitis, a potentially serious inflammation of the membrane usually caused by bacterial infection. Additionally, cancers originating in the peritoneum or spreading to it from nearby organs can result in peritoneal carcinomatosis.
In summary, the peritoneum is a serous membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers the organs within it. It provides protection, lubrication, and immune defense while being essential for proper abdominal functioning.
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The serous sac lining the abdominal cavity and covering most of the viscera therein contained. It forms two sacs, the greater and the lesser, connected by the foramen of Winslow.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A thin membrane which lines the whole internal surface of the abdomen, and envelops more or less completely the several parts of the viscera, retaining them in their proper places, and at the same time allowing them to move freely when required.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PERITONEUM
Etymology of PERITONEUM
The word "peritoneum" comes from the Greek word "peritonaion", which is derived from "peri" meaning "around" or "surrounding", and "tonos" meaning "tension" or "strain". The term was originally used to describe the membranous lining surrounding the abdomen.
Similar spelling words for PERITONEUM
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