Plank abdomen refers to acute diffuse peritonitis due to acute gastrointestinal perforation or organ rupture, where the peritoneum is irritated and causes spasm of the abdominal muscles, and the abdominal wall is often markedly tense and even straight and hard like a plank, hence the name. For example, acute gastrointestinal perforation, acute necrotizing pancreatitis, intestinal perforation, acute appendicitis, or organ rupture, as well as gynecological diseases may occur. In severe cases, it can cause a drop in blood pressure and systemic toxic reaction, and if not treated in time, it can lead to death by toxic shock. Etiology Acute diffuse peritonitis due to acute gastrointestinal perforation or organ rupture. What are the tests for platysmal abdomen? The abdominal muscles are tense, and palpation will reveal a hard abdomen, as “hard” as a wooden plate, hence the name plank abdomen. It is a protective reaction to the stimulation of the visceral nerves, hence the name, such as gastric perforation, acute necrotizing pancreatitis, intestinal perforation, acute appendicitis, gynecological diseases, etc. It can occur in acute abdomen and peritonitis.