Hemoperitoneum
Hemoperitoneum
Hemoperitoneum (pronounced: he-mo-per-i-to-ne-um) is a medical condition characterized by the presence of blood in the peritoneal cavity. The peritoneal cavity is the space within the abdomen that contains the intestines, the stomach, and the liver. It is not normally filled with fluid. Hemoperitoneum is often caused by abdominal trauma, ruptured ectopic pregnancy, or ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm.
Etymology
The term "hemoperitoneum" is derived from the Greek words "haima" meaning blood, and "peritonaion" meaning to stretch over, which refers to the peritoneum, the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity.
Causes
Hemoperitoneum is most commonly caused by abdominal trauma, such as a stab or gunshot wound. It can also occur as a result of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, in which a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, or a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, which is a weakened and bulging area in the lower part of the aorta, the major blood vessel that supplies blood to the body.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hemoperitoneum may include abdominal pain, tenderness, and distension. Other symptoms can include hypotension (low blood pressure), tachycardia (rapid heart rate), and signs of shock.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of hemoperitoneum typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or a computed tomography (CT) scan. In some cases, a diagnostic laparoscopy may be performed, which involves inserting a thin tube with a camera into the abdomen to view the organs.
Treatment
Treatment for hemoperitoneum depends on the cause and severity of the condition. It may involve surgery to stop the bleeding and repair any damage, or it may involve non-surgical treatments such as blood transfusions and fluid replacement.
Related Terms
- Peritoneal cavity
- Abdominal trauma
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm
- Hypotension
- Tachycardia
- Shock
- Ultrasound
- Computed tomography (CT) scan
- Laparoscopy
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hemoperitoneum
- Wikipedia's article - Hemoperitoneum
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