DefinitionPeritonitis is an inflammation (irritation) of the peritoneum, the tissue that lines the wall of the abdomen and covers the abdominal organs.Alternative NamesAcute abdomenCauses, incidence, and risk factorsA collection of pus in the abdomen, called an intra-abdominal abscess, may cause peritonitis.See the specific types of peritonitis:Peritonitis - spontaneousPeritonitis - secondaryPeritonitis - dialysis associatedSymptomsAbdominal distentionAbdominal painor tendernessFeverFluid in the abdomenInability to pass feces or gasLow urine outputNausea and vomitingPoint tendernessThirstAdditional symptoms that may be associated with this disease include:Cloudy dialysis fluid (if undergoing peritoneal dialysis)Nausea and vomitingShaking chillsSigns of shockSigns and testsThe doctor will p