Defense mechanisms of the peritoneal cavity.

The peritoneal cavity contains resident and migratory cell populations, which play crucial roles in the local defensive response against bacterial invasion. Although mononuclear phagocytes predominate in the peritoneal cavity of healthy subjects, recent attention has been focused on mesothelial and dendritic cells. Kinetic analysis of inflammatory mediators has derived from experimental models of peritonitis, but advances in the understanding of the roles of molecules such as lipocortins, PAF, leukotriene B4, PPAR gamma agonists, and chemokines has also been made. Little is known about the peritoneal response to physical trauma in the context of the abdominal compartment syndrome. Studies on the cellular and molecular pathology of intra-abdominal abscesses, peritoneal sclerosis, and other less frequent clinical entities (e.g., tertiary peritonitis) are needed. Biological therapy may contribute to improved clinical management of such diseases.