The peritoneum lines the abdominal cavity, supporting the organs in the abdomen and helping to protect them from infection. The inside surface of the peritoneum produces fluid (peritoneal fluid) that allows the organs in the abdomen to slide against the peritoneum and each other.
Author:Jeannette Curtis
Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Medical Review:Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated: 05/25/2007
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