Seroosikalvolla

Seroosikalvolla is a term that refers to the serous membrane lining a cavity or organ. These membranes are thin, smooth, and slippery, composed of a layer of mesothelium and a thin layer of connective tissue. They secrete a small amount of serous fluid, which acts as a lubricant, reducing friction between opposing surfaces.

There are two main types of serous membranes: the pleura, which surrounds the lungs, and the peritoneum, which lines the abdominal cavity. The pleura consists of two layers, the visceral pleura that covers the lungs and the parietal pleura that lines the chest wall. The space between these two layers, the pleural cavity, contains serous fluid. Similarly, the peritoneum has a visceral layer covering abdominal organs and a parietal layer lining the abdominal wall, with the peritoneal cavity between them containing serous fluid.

The serous fluid secreted by these membranes is crucial for smooth movement. For instance, it allows the lungs to expand and contract without friction against the chest wall during breathing. In the abdomen, it facilitates the movement of organs like the intestines during digestion. Any inflammation of these serous membranes is known as serositis. Conditions like pleurisy (inflammation of the pleura) and peritonitis (inflammation of the peritoneum) are examples of serositis.