The peritoneum is a serous membrane lining that can be found in the abdominal region of the body. This lining forms part of the abdominal cavity and comprises two layers, one of which is a layer of mesothelium and a layer of connecting tissue. The peritoneum, like the other membranous linings in the body, performs a very important function that not only helps to protect the relevant organs but also enables the organs to function more smoothly.
The peritoneum is a double layered lining, and this is made up of the parietal peritoneum and the visceral peritoneum. The space between the two layers of this lining is known as the peritoneal cavity, and this is where you will find a lubricating fluid known as serous fluid. The peritoneum can, unfortunately, be affected by various diseases, which can prove quite serious in some cases.
One type of disease that can affect the peritoneal lining and cavity is known as peritoneal mesothelioma, and this is a form of asbestos related cancer that can stem from long-term or high-level exposure to asbestos fibers and dust that have become airborne. This cancer can take several decades to manifest from the time of exposure, and therefore, when it is diagnosed, it is often in its later stages.
The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include abdominal pains and weakness, weight loss, nausea, loss off appetite, abdominal swelling, and bowel obstruction. Depending on the location of the tumour, additional problems can be experienced, such as breathing problems and severe pain. The treatment of the disease can vary, and the disease can result in excessive fluid accumulating in the peritoneal cavity, which will then have to be drained off.
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