Peritoneal Cavity - Anatomy & Physiology
Introduction
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
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