Question

Describe pericardium.

Answer 1

1. The heart is enclosed in a membranous sac called the pericardium.
2. The pericardium is formed of two main layers - outer fibrous and inner serous pericardium.
3. Serous pericardium is soft, moist, and elastic. It is formed of squamous epithelium and is further divisible into two layers as a parietal and visceral layer.
4. Parietal and visceral layers of serous pericardium are separated by a pericardial space.
5. This space is filled with pericardial fluid (about 50ml) which acts as a shock absorber and protects the heart from mechanical injuries.
6. It also keeps the heart moist and acts as a lubricant.