Pathophysiology

Pathophysiology of peritonitis can be categorized into the following phases:

Phase I

It involves an exposure of the peritoneum to a source of irritation which can be a result of bacterial invasion, chemical or radiational contacts. In case of septic peritonitis, the invasion can be a direct extension from adjacent inflamed structures, perforated viscous, contaminated foreign bodies or hematogenous spread from distant infected parts.

Phase II

It involves rapid absorption of  contaminated peritoneal fluid into systemic circulation which can result into septicaemia in case of infectious peritonitis.

Phase III

It involves activation of immune system right after exposure to contaminated peritoneal fluid.

Phase IV

It involves localization of infection by host defense through production of fibrinous exudates that traps microbes within its matrix. This event prevents further spread of infection to nearby tissue.