Serooskalvot

Serooskalvot is a Finnish term that translates to "serous membranes" in English. These are thin membranes that line various internal cavities and organs of the body. There are two main types of serous membranes: the pleura and the peritoneum. The pleura surrounds the lungs and lines the thoracic cavity, while the peritoneum lines the abdominal cavity and covers most of the abdominal organs. Another serous membrane is the pericardium, which encloses the heart.

Serous membranes secrete a thin, watery fluid called serous fluid. This fluid acts as a lubricant, reducing friction between órgãos and the cavity walls, as well as between adjacent organs. This lubrication is crucial for smooth movement, such as the expansion and contraction of the lungs during breathing or the peristalsis of the digestive tract. The fluid also helps to keep organs in place and can play a role in immune responses by containing immune cells.

The structure of a serous membrane consists of two layers: a parietal layer and a visceral layer. The parietal layer lines the cavity wall, while the visceral layer covers the organ itself. Between these two layers is the serous cavity, which contains the serous fluid. Inflammation of serous membranes is known as serositis, which can affect the pleura (pleurisy), peritoneum (peritonitis), or pericardium (pericarditis), often causing pain and discomfort.