Retroperitoneum

The retroperitoneum (adj. retroperitoneal) is the anatomical space behind (retro) the abdominal cavity. It has no specific delineating anatomical structures. Organs such as the kidneys, bladder, and portions of the duodenumand the colonlie behind the peritoneum and are thus termed retroperitoneal.

Retroperitoneal bleeding, such as from a ruptured aortic aneurysmshows as Grey Turner's sign(flank bruising).

Role in disease

• Retroperitoneal fibrosis

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It uses material from the http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retroperitoneum Wikipedia article Retroperitoneum.