Structure
The peritoneum is a complex, continuous serous membrane consisting of a layer of mesothelium and varying degrees of connective and adipose tissue. Visually, it is largely unremarkable, smooth, and has a lubricated surface due to the presence of peritoneal fluid.
Anatomical Relations
The parietal peritoneum of the abdomen is closely attached by extraperitoneal connective tissue to the muscular walls of the abdomen. The parietal peritoneum shares the same neurovascular supply (somatic) as the adjacent abdominal wall to which it is adhered, thus making it different than the supply of the visceral peritoneum (Standring, 2016).
Function
The peritoneum secretes peritoneal fluid which helps lubricate viscera within the abdominal and pelvic cavities, reducing friction between organs. This is especially true of dynamic organs involved in peristalsis or those that distend due to changes of volume, such as the bladder. Secondly, the peritoneum aids in the immune response as the peritoneal fluid contains various immune cells. The peritoneal fluid actively flows around the peritoneal cavity and is eventually absorbed by lymphatics. The peritoneum, like other tissues, responds to trauma and inflammation, thus helping to protect the viscera (Moore, Dalley and Agur, 2013).
List of Clinical Correlates
- Peritonitis
- Ascites
- Adhesions
References
Moore, K. L., Dalley, A. F. and Agur, A. M. R. (2013) Clinically Oriented Anatomy. Clinically Oriented Anatomy 7th edn.: Wolters Kluwer Health/Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Standring, S. (2016) Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice., 41st edition. Elsevier Limited.
Learn more about this topic from other Elsevier products
Peritoneum
The subperitoneal space is defined as the anatomic continuum deep to the peritoneum that covers the coelomic cavity and organs extending in continuity to form a network of interconnecting peritoneal folds known as the ligaments and mesenteries of the abdomen and pelvis.
