Peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneum, the membrane surrounding the abdominal organs and lining the abdominal wall. It is caused by infection, usually occurring as a complication of another disorder, such as appendicitis, a ruptured stomach ulcer, or diverticular disease.
Symptoms usually develop rapidly and may include severe, constant abdominal pain; fever; abdominal swelling; nausea; and vomiting.
It is potentially life- threatening and needs urgent treatment. This usually involves medications to eliminate the infection, and sometimes surgery to treat the underlying cause.