Changes

The main routes by which bacteria enter the peritoneal cavity are from the gastro-intestinal (GI) tract and from externally.  '''Penetrating wounds''' to the abdomen and the introduction of '''foreign bodies''' are likely to introduce bacteria.

The main routes by which bacteria enter the peritoneal cavity are from the gastro-intestinal (GI) tract and from externally.  '''Penetrating wounds''' to the abdomen and the introduction of '''foreign bodies''' are likely to introduce bacteria.

GI bacteria may enter the peritoneal cavity after perforation or rupture of the intestine.  This may occur due to erosion of the intestinal wall by ulcers or neoplasia or due to rupture after a loop of intestine is strangulated.  [[Rectal Perforation|Rectal tears]] of the higher grades in horses may also lead to the introduction of bacteria.   

GI bacteria may enter the peritoneal cavity after perforation or rupture of the intestine.  This may occur due to erosion of the intestinal wall by ulcers or neoplasia or due to rupture after a loop of intestine is strangulated.  Rectal tears of the higher grades in horses may also lead to the introduction of bacteria.   

Rupture of other infected tracts (including the urinary tract, reproductive tract and biliary tract) may also cause septic peritonitis.

Rupture of other infected tracts (including the urinary tract, reproductive tract and biliary tract) may also cause septic peritonitis.