Mesothelium

Mesothelium is a membrane composed of simple squamous epithelium that forms the lining of several body cavities: the pleura (thoracic cavity), peritoneum (abdominal cavity including the mesentery), and pericardium (heart sac). Mesothelial tissue also surrounds the male internal reproductive organs (the tunica vaginalis testis) and covers the internal reproductive organs of women (the tunica serosa uteri). Mesothelium derives from the embryonic mesoderm cell layer, that lines the coelom (body cavity) in the embryo. It develops into the layer of cells that covers and protects most of the internal organs of the body.

Structure

The mesothelium is composed of an extensive monolayer of specialized cells (mesothelial cells) that line the body's serous cavities and internal organs. The major purpose of these cells is to provide a slippery, non-adhesive and protective surface.

Function

Mesothelial cells are capable of phagocytosis and are critically involved in the removal of fluid and particulate matter from the body cavities they line. They also play a role in the inflammatory response and tissue repair.

Clinical significance

Damage to the mesothelium can result from various causes, notably asbestos exposure, leading to diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the thin layer of tissue that covers the majority of your internal organs (mesothelium).

See also

• Mesothelioma
• Asbestosis
• Peritoneum
• Pleura
• Pericardium

References

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