The peritoneum is the lining of your abdomen (belly), while peritonitis is the inflammation (redness and swelling) of that lining.
To further clarify the difference, here's a breakdown:
Peritoneum vs. Peritonitis
| Feature | Peritoneum | Peritonitis |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The serous membrane lining the abdominal cavity | Inflammation of the peritoneum |
| Nature | A normal anatomical structure | A medical condition (often an infection) |
| Description | Lines the abdominal wall and covers organs | Characterized by swelling and redness of the peritoneum |
| Cause | N/A | Often caused by infection (e.g., a burst appendix, a hole in the bowel). |
According to the provided reference, "Peritonitis is a redness and swelling (inflammation) of the lining of your belly or abdomen. This lining is called the peritoneum." It highlights that the peritoneum is the normal tissue, while peritonitis is what happens when that tissue becomes inflamed, frequently due to an infection originating from a problem like a burst appendix or a hole in the bowel.
