Imaging of the peritoneal cavity.

Newer techniques and applications of cross-sectional imaging of the abdomen with CT, ultrasound, and MR imaging have facilitated the diagnosis of diseases primarily involving the peritoneal cavity. CT peritoneography may aid in diagnosing complications of peritoneal dialysis, and detecting internal hernias and small peritoneal implants. Uncommon abnormalities such as sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis, cystic mesothelioma, and peritonitis from rupture of a retroperitoneal teratoma may also be diagnosed with CT or ultrasonography.