Intraperitoneal

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Intraperitoneal refers to the administration of medication or the occurrence of an event within the peritoneal cavity, an area within the abdomen that contains the intestines, stomach, and liver. This method is often used in chemotherapy treatments for certain types of cancer, including ovarian cancer and stomach cancer.

Overview[edit | edit source]

The peritoneal cavity is a potential space between the parietal peritoneum (the peritoneum that lines the wall of the abdomen) and the visceral peritoneum (the peritoneum that covers the organs in the abdomen). It is filled with a small amount of lubricating serous fluid that allows the abdominal organs to slide or glide over each other with ease.

Intraperitoneal administration involves the direct injection of substances into this peritoneal cavity. This method is often used in the treatment of cancers that are confined to the peritoneal cavity, as it allows for a higher concentration of medication to be delivered directly to the area of concern.

Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy[edit | edit source]

Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. Intraperitoneal chemotherapy involves injecting these drugs directly into the peritoneal cavity. This method can be more effective than intravenous chemotherapy for certain types of cancer, as it allows for a higher concentration of the drug to be delivered directly to the cancer cells.

Intraperitoneal chemotherapy is commonly used in the treatment of ovarian cancer, stomach cancer, and peritoneal mesothelioma. It may also be used in the treatment of colorectal cancer that has spread to the peritoneal cavity.

Risks and Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Like all medical procedures, intraperitoneal administration carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, and damage to the organs in the peritoneal cavity. Side effects of intraperitoneal chemotherapy may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fatigue.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Intraperitoneal Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD