Pericardial

Pericardial refers to anything related to the pericardium, the double-walled sac containing the heart and the roots of the great vessels. The pericardial space is the potential space formed between the two layers of serous pericardium, the visceral and parietal pericardium.

Structure

The pericardium is a thin, two-layered, fluid-filled sac that covers the outer surface of the heart. It shields the heart from infection or malignancy and contains the heart in the chest wall. It also prevents the heart from over-expanding when blood volume increases, which keeps the heart functioning efficiently.

Layers

The pericardium is composed of two layers: the serous pericardium and the fibrous pericardium. The serous pericardium is thinner and more delicate than the fibrous pericardium. It is made up of two layers: the parietal pericardium, which is fused to the fibrous pericardium, and the visceral pericardium, which is fused to the heart and is also known as the epicardium.

Function

The pericardium performs several functions: it protects the heart, anchors it within the mediastinum, prevents overfilling of the heart with blood, and reduces friction between the heart and surrounding organs.

Clinical significance

Pericardial diseases can be caused by inflammation (pericarditis), fluid buildup (pericardial effusion), and stiffness (constrictive pericarditis). These conditions can result from various causes such as infection, kidney failure, autoimmune conditions, and cancer. They can lead to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

See also

• Pericardial effusion
• Pericarditis
• Constrictive pericarditis
• Cardiac tamponade