Peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum, often caused by infection, while ascites is the buildup of fluid in the peritoneal space.
Let's break down the key differences:
Peritonitis vs. Ascites
| Feature | Peritonitis | Ascites |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Inflammation of the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity). | Accumulation of fluid within the peritoneal cavity (the space between the abdominal lining and organs). |
| Cause | Often caused by infection from a ruptured appendix, perforated ulcer, or spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). | Various conditions, including liver disease, heart failure, kidney disease, and some cancers. |
| SBP | Peritonitis can be caused by spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), which often occurs in people who already have ascites. | Ascites can create an environment where bacteria can thrive, increasing the risk of SBP. |
| Fluid Type | Can involve blood, body fluids, or pus. | Primarily serous fluid (a clear, protein-containing fluid), but can also be chylous or bloody. |
| Symptoms | Severe abdominal pain, tenderness, fever, nausea, vomiting, rigid abdomen. | Abdominal swelling, increased abdominal girth, shortness of breath, discomfort. |
In simpler terms:
- Peritonitis is an infection/inflammation, often requiring immediate medical attention.
- Ascites is a fluid buildup, which can be a symptom of an underlying condition.
According to the reference, ascites is the buildup of fluid in the space between the lining of the abdomen and the organs and peritonitis is caused by a collection of blood, body fluids, or pus in the belly (abdomen). One type of peritonitis is called spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), and it occurs in people with ascites.
