PERICARDIAL CAVITY Meaning and
Definition
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The pericardial cavity is a vital anatomical structure located within the thoracic cavity of mammals, including humans. It is a fluid-filled space that surrounds and protects the heart. The word "pericardial" is derived from the Greek words "peri" meaning around, and "cardia" meaning heart, reflecting its location around the heart.
The pericardial cavity is lined by a double-layered serous membrane called the pericardium. This membrane serves as a protective barrier and consists of two layers: the outer fibrous pericardium and the inner serous pericardium. The serous pericardium is further divided into two layers: the parietal layer, which adheres to the fibrous pericardium, and the visceral layer, also known as the epicardium, which covers the heart surface.
The pericardial cavity contains a small amount of lubricating fluid known as pericardial fluid, secreted by the serous membrane. This fluid helps to reduce friction during heart movements and allows the heart to beat smoothly within the cavity.
The pericardial cavity functions to provide protection and support to the heart, acting as a shock absorber against external forces. Its anatomical location also facilitates the proper functioning of the heart by maintaining the heart in its appropriate position within the thoracic cavity, preventing excessive movement or displacement.
In summary, the pericardial cavity is a fluid-filled space that surrounds and cushions the heart, ensuring its protection, proper functioning, and anatomical stability.
Common Misspellings for PERICARDIAL CAVITY
- oericardial cavity
- lericardial cavity
- -ericardial cavity
- 0ericardial cavity
- pwricardial cavity
- psricardial cavity
- pdricardial cavity
- prricardial cavity
- p4ricardial cavity
- p3ricardial cavity
- peeicardial cavity
- pedicardial cavity
- peficardial cavity
- peticardial cavity
- pe5icardial cavity
- pe4icardial cavity
- perucardial cavity
- perjcardial cavity
- perkcardial cavity
Etymology of PERICARDIAL CAVITY
The word "pericardial" is derived from the Greek words "peri" meaning "around" and "kardia" meaning "heart". The word "cavity" originates from the Latin word "cavus" meaning "hollow or hole". Hence, the term "pericardial cavity" refers to the hollow space or cavity that surrounds the heart.
Similar spelling words for PERICARDIAL CAVITY
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