When we talk about our health, we often focus on organs like the heart and brain. However, there are equally important and less well-known parts of our body, such as the peritoneum. This article aims to clarify what the peritoneum is, its vital functions, and how diseases like pseudomyxoma peritonei can affect it.
The peritoneum is a serous membrane that lines and supports all organs within the abdominal cavity. Composed of two specific parts — the parietal peritoneum, which adheres to the abdominal walls, and the visceral peritoneum, which covers the internal organs — this tissue plays crucial roles in your body.
The primary functions of the peritoneum include protecting internal organs from friction, acting as a lubricant that allows organs to move smoothly during daily activities such as digestion. Additionally, the peritoneum facilitates the transport of fluids and electrolytes between peritoneal surfaces.
Although robust, the peritoneum is susceptible to various diseases, including infections and neoplasms like peritoneal cancer. When neoplasms spread to the peritoneum, they can significantly affect the function of this vital membrane. Cancer cells can cause inflammation, scar formation, or even disrupt normal fluid transport, leading to complications such as ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity).
One particularly rare and complex condition related to the peritoneum is pseudomyxoma peritonei. This disease occurs when mucinous cells from a tumor, often originating from the appendix, begin producing a gelatinous substance within the peritoneum. This buildup not only interferes with the function of abdominal organs but also with the peritoneum’s protective and transport function
Read also: How do I discover a pseudomyxoma?
The impact of neoplasms on the peritoneum is extensive and can be quite debilitating. Symptoms often include abdominal pain, swelling, and changes in bowel habits, which may be mistaken for less serious issues. It is crucial to recognize these signs and seek medical evaluation, as early diagnosis is vital for effective management of these conditions.
Peritoneal neoplasms, such as pseudomyxoma peritonei, are treated with a combination of surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible (cytoreductive surgery) and chemotherapy to address any residual disease (HIPEC). The approach is complex and requires a specialized medical team in the field.
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