Peritoneal cavity

The peritoneal cavity is a potential space located between the two layers of the peritoneum—the parietal peritoneum, the serous membrane that lines the abdominal wall, and visceral peritoneum, which surrounds the internal organs. While situated within the abdominal cavity, the term peritoneal cavity specifically refers to the potential space enclosed by these peritoneal membranes. The cavity contains a thin layer of lubricating serous fluid that enables the organs to move smoothly against each other, facilitating the movement and expansion of internal organs during digestion. The parietal and visceral peritonea are named according to their location and function. The peritoneal cavity, derived from the coelomic cavity in the embryo, is one of several body cavities, including the pleural cavities surrounding the lungs and the pericardial cavity around the heart. The peritoneal cavity is the largest serosal sac and fluid-filled cavity in the body, it secretes approximately 50 milliliters (1.7 U.S. fl oz) of fluid daily. This fluid serves as a lubricant and has anti-inflammatory properties. The cavity is divided into the greater and lesser sacs, with the greater sac further subdivided into the supracolic and infracolic compartments.