epikardiaalse

Epikardiaalse is a term used in cardiac anatomy and medicine to refer to structures or locations that are on or in the epicardium, the outermost layer of the heart wall. The epicardium itself is a serous membrane that forms the visceral layer of the pericardium. It is a thin, smooth layer that covers the outer surface of the heart muscle, known as the myocardium.

Within the epicardium, or closely associated with it, are several important anatomical features. The epicardial coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, are embedded within the epicardial fat layer. The great cardiac vein and other coronary veins also run along the epicardial surface. Lymphatic vessels and nerves are also found in this layer.

Conditions affecting the epicardium can have significant clinical implications. For example, epicarditis refers to inflammation of the epicardium, which can occur as part of pericarditis. The accumulation of epicardial fat has also been linked to cardiovascular disease, with increased epicardial fat volume being associated with a higher risk of coronary artery disease. Imaging techniques, such as echocardiography and cardiac CT, can be used to visualize and assess the epicardium and its associated structures.