perikárdium

The pericardium is a double-layered sac that surrounds the heart. The outer layer, the fibrous pericardium, is a tough, inelastic sac that anchors the heart in place within the chest cavity and prevents it from overfilling with blood. The inner layer, the serous pericardium, is a delicate membrane that is further divided into two sub-layers. The parietal layer of the serous pericardium is fused to the inner surface of the fibrous pericardium. Between the parietal and visceral layers of the serous pericardium is a potential space called the pericardial cavity. This cavity contains a small amount of pericardial fluid, which acts as a lubricant, allowing the heart to beat smoothly and frictionlessly within the pericardium. The visceral layer of the serous pericardium, also known as the epicardium, is directly attached to the outer surface of the heart muscle. Inflammation of the pericardium is called pericarditis. Conditions affecting the pericardium can lead to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. The pericardium plays a crucial role in protecting and maintaining the function of the heart.