Peritonitis in Dogs

Digg

Del.icio.us

Stumble

Peritonitis in Dogs

By: Dr. Dawn Ruben

Pages

2 3

Section: Overview

The peritoneum is a membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and produces a small amount of fluid that lubricates the abdominal contents. In addition, the peritoneum is also responsible for forming adhesions, or scars, in the presence of an inflammatory process.

Peritonitis is an inflammatory process affecting the peritoneum that can be very serious, or even life-threatening. Peritonitis results in the accumulation of excessive fluid within the abdominal cavity. It can be associated with abdominal trauma, abdominal surgery or pancreatitis.

What to Watch For

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Weakness

Fever

Lack of appetite

Abdominal distention

Abdominal pain

Diagnosis

Various diagnostic tests are performed to help determine the presence of peritonitis and the severity of the infection.

Tests may include:

An abdominal tap to obtain a fluid sample

Complete blood count

Biochemical profile

Culture of the abdominal fluid to determine the type of bacteria

Abdominal X-rays

Abdominal ultrasound

Treatment

Peritonitis can be treated medically or surgically, depending on the underlying cause of the peritonitis. Medical therapy includes:

Intravenous fluids

Antibiotics

Medication to control pain

Surgery is performed if moderate or severe peritonitis is present. Surgery includes:

Exploratory surgery to address the underlying cause of the peritonitis

Placing a feeding tube

Flushing the abdominal cavity and cleaning with saline
The incision may be closed or left open for a short period of time to allow the remaining fluid to be removed.

Home Care and Prevention

After treatment, animals are often continued on antibiotics for a period of time. The animal is monitored for vomiting, lack of appetite or depression.

Peritonitis can be difficult to prevent, but prompt diagnosis and effective treatment of underlying illness can help reduce the risk.

Pages

2 3