Pericárdica

Pericárdica refers to anything related to the pericardium, which is a double-layered sac that surrounds the heart and the roots of the great vessels. The outer layer, the fibrous pericardium, is a tough, inelastic sac that anchors the heart to surrounding structures like the diaphragm and sternum. The inner layer, the serous pericardium, is further divided into two sub-layers: the parietal pericardium, which lines the inner surface of the fibrous pericardium, and the visceral pericardium, which is directly attached to the surface of the heart, also known as the epicardium.

Between the parietal and visceral layers of the serous pericardium is a potential space called the pericardial cavity. This cavity normally contains a small amount of pericardial fluid, typically 15-50 mL, which acts as a lubricant, allowing the heart to contract and relax smoothly within the chest cavity without friction.

Conditions affecting the pericardium are often described using the term "pericárdica." For example, pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium. Pericardial effusion refers to an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pericardial cavity. Pericardial tamponade is a life-threatening condition where a large amount of fluid in the pericardial sac compresses the heart, impairing its ability to pump blood effectively. Diseases or abnormalities of the pericardium can significantly impact cardiac function.