8/9/2019 The Peritoneum the Peritoneal Cavity is a Closed Sac Lined by Mesothelial Cells

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THE PERITONEUMThe peritoneal cavity is a closed sac lined by mesothelial cells, which produce surfactantthat acts as a lubricant within the peritoneal cavity. The cavity contains

8/9/2019 The Peritoneum the Peritoneal Cavity is a Closed Sac Lined by Mesothelial Cells

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A rare condition, there is a marked fibrosis over the post. abdominal wall and retroperitoneum.

Tuberculous peritonitis

This is the second most common form of abdominal TB.

Three subgroups can be identified: wet, dry and fibrous.

1. Thewettype. Ascitic fluid should be examined forprotein concentration (> 20 g/L) andtubercle bacilli (rarely found).

2. Thedryform. Present with subacute intestinalobstruction due to adhesions.

3. Thefibrous form. Present with abdominal pain, distension andill-defined irregular tender abdominalmasses.

The diagnosis is by ultrasound or CT screening (mesenteric thickening and lymph nodeenlargement). A histological diagnosis is not always required before instituting treatment.

Treatment is similar to that for pulmonary TB.