PNEUMOPERITONEUM Meaning and
Definition
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Pneumoperitoneum is a medical term used to describe the presence of air or gas in the peritoneal cavity, the space located within the abdomen between the abdominal organs and the abdominal wall. The peritoneal cavity normally contains a small amount of fluid, but the presence of air or gas is abnormal and often indicative of an underlying medical condition.
Pneumoperitoneum can occur as a result of various causes, including trauma, surgical procedures, infections, and gastrointestinal disorders. It may present with symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, tenderness, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. Additionally, physical examination of the abdomen may reveal abnormal sounds, known as "percussion resonance," upon tapping or palpation.
The diagnosis of pneumoperitoneum is typically confirmed through medical imaging techniques, such as X-rays or computerized tomography (CT) scans, which can visualize the presence of air or gas within the peritoneal cavity. Once diagnosed, further investigations may be conducted to identify the underlying cause.
Treatment for pneumoperitoneum depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. In some cases, conservative management may be sufficient, including bed rest, pain management, and observation. However, surgical intervention may be necessary in cases of perforated viscera or other serious underlying conditions.
Overall, pneumoperitoneum is a medical condition characterized by the presence of air or gas in the peritoneal cavity, and its diagnosis and management depend on the underlying cause and clinical presentation.
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The presence of gas in the peritoneal cavity outside of the intestine.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PNEUMOPERITONEUM
- oneumoperitoneum
- lneumoperitoneum
- -neumoperitoneum
- 0neumoperitoneum
- pbeumoperitoneum
- pmeumoperitoneum
- pjeumoperitoneum
- pheumoperitoneum
- pnwumoperitoneum
- pnsumoperitoneum
- pndumoperitoneum
- pnrumoperitoneum
- pn4umoperitoneum
- pn3umoperitoneum
- pneymoperitoneum
- pnehmoperitoneum
- pnejmoperitoneum
- pneimoperitoneum
- pne8moperitoneum
- pne7moperitoneum
Etymology of PNEUMOPERITONEUM
The word "pneumoperitoneum" is derived from two roots:
1. "Pneumo-" comes from the Greek word "pneuma" (πνεῦμα) which means "air" or "wind". This root is commonly used in medical terms relating to air or gas.
2. "-Peritoneum" comes from the Greek word "peritonaion" (περιτόναιον) meaning "the lining around the abdomen".
Combining these two roots, "pneumoperitoneum" refers to the presence of air or gas in the peritoneal cavity, which is the space between the abdominal wall and organs within the abdomen.
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