Pneumoperitoneum
Pneumoperitoneum
Pneumoperitoneum (pronounced: noo-moh-per-i-toh-nee-uhm) is a medical condition characterized by the presence of air or gas in the peritoneal cavity, the space within the abdomen that contains the intestines, stomach, and liver.
Etymology
The term "Pneumoperitoneum" is derived from the Greek words "pneumo" meaning air and "peritoneum" referring to the lining of the abdominal cavity.
Causes
Pneumoperitoneum is most commonly caused by a perforation (hole) in the gastrointestinal tract. Other causes can include recent surgery, infection, or trauma. In some cases, it can also be intentionally induced by a medical professional for a procedure known as laparoscopy.
Symptoms
Symptoms of pneumoperitoneum can vary depending on the cause, but may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. In severe cases, it can lead to sepsis or shock.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of pneumoperitoneum is typically made through imaging studies such as an X-ray or CT scan. In some cases, a physical examination may also reveal signs of the condition.
Treatment
Treatment for pneumoperitoneum typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include surgery to repair a perforation in the gastrointestinal tract, antibiotics to treat an infection, or other interventions as needed.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pneumoperitoneum
- Wikipedia's article - Pneumoperitoneum
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