title: The pathobiology of peritonitis.
abstract: The peritoneum is more than a mechanical covering that allows for the easy gliding of opposed peritoneal surfaces. The peritoneal mesothelial cells facilitate the action of powerful innate immune mechanisms. In addition, the peritoneal-associated lymphoid tissues contain unique cells that may play a crucial role in the localization of intraperitoneal infection. A clearer understanding of the molecular and cellular events underlying peritoneal functions in both the unstimulated and stimulated state will aid future treatment of peritonitis.
authors.affiliation: University Department of Surgery, Royal Perth Hospital, Australia.
authors.forename: J C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Hall
authors.forename: K A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Heel
authors.forename: J M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Papadimitriou
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Platell
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D010538:Peritonitis / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology*