Inflammation of the peritoneum, the membrane lining the abdominal cavity and covering abdominal organs, typically caused by bacterial infection. This is a life-threatening condition requiring emergency surgical treatment.
From Greek 'peritonaion' meaning 'stretched around' (referring to the peritoneal membrane) and '-itis' meaning 'inflammation.' The term was established in medical literature during the 18th century as abdominal surgery developed.
Peritonitis is why appendicitis is a surgical emergency - if the appendix bursts, it spills infected material into the normally sterile abdominal cavity, potentially causing fatal widespread infection within hours. The rigid, board-like abdomen is a classic sign that surgeons recognize immediately.
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