Peritoneal Cavity - Anatomy & Physiology

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Introduction

The peritoneum is the serous membrane which lines the abdominal cavity. It is a type of loose connective tissue covered by mesothelium. Extensions of the peritoneum form the mesenteries that support the abdominal contents. It functions to lubricate abdominal viscera , enhance the immune response and wall off infection in the abdomen to prevent peritonitis.

Structure

  • Peritoneum is normally smooth and clear,
  • Small volume of clear fluid for lubrication - in equilibrium with plasma but doesn't contain high molecular weight molecules like fibrinogen
  • Small animals
    • Low volume of clear straw coloured fluid
    • Specific gravity <1.015 to 1.018
    • Total protein 25-39g/L
    • Nucleated cell count <3x10e9/L
    • Mesothelial cells/macrophages

Single layer of mesothelial cells

  • Many species have lymphoid tissue aggregates and fixed phagocytes in the omentum that are not covered by mesothelial cells
  • NB Post mortem change and autolysis result in increased volumes of red-brown fluid in the abdomen, not associated with other pathology, no roughening of surfaces of organs or peritoneum.

Function

Vasculature

Innervation

Lymphatics

Histology

  • Have microvili on their surface
  • Very fragile but regenerate very quickly
  • High fibrinolytic activity - protects against the formation of adhesions
  • Show reactive change with inflammation or effusions
  • May be confused with neoplastic cells

Species Differences

  • Peritoneum is normally smooth and clear,
  • Small volume of clear fluid for lubrication - in equilibrium with plasma but doesn't contain high molecular weight molecules like fibrinogen
  • Small animals
    • Low volume of clear straw coloured fluid
    • Specific gravity <1.015 to 1.018
    • Total protein 25-39g/L
    • Nucleated cell count <3x10e9/L
    • Mesothelial cells/macrophages

Links

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