What causes the characteristic rigid abdomen found in the patient with peritonitis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Inflammation of the peritoneum can cause reflex abdominal muscle spasm, which leads to the characteristic rigid abdomen found in the patient with peritonitis. This occurs as a protective mechanism to limit movement and prevent further irritation or injury to the inflamed tissues. Increased fluid and gas causing abdominal distention (A) may contribute to the rigidity, but it is not the primary cause. Inflammation of the peritoneum and organs causing a firm mass in the abdomen (B) would be indicative of a different condition, such as a tumor or abscess, rather than peritonitis. The patient voluntarily contracting the abdominal muscles as a protective mechanism (D) is not a typical response and would require conscious effort, which is unlikely in someone with peritonitis.

What Causes the Characteristic Rigid Abdomen Found in the Patient