Serositis refers to the inflammation of the serous membrane, which is the membrane that lines the internal body cavities. Some common synonyms for serositis include pleurisy, pericarditis, and peritonitis, which indicate the specific location of the inflammation within the body. Other potential synonyms for serositis might include inflammation of the serous membrane, or simply inflamed organs. The condition can be caused by a number of factors, including infections, autoimmune disorders, or exposure to certain chemicals or drugs. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, difficulty breathing, and fever, among other things, and treatment often focuses on managing the underlying cause of the inflammation.