The serous pericardium is a thin, closed membrane folded back on itself to form two continuous layers. The parietal layer lines the inside of the fibrous pericardium, and the visceral layer (epicardium) covers the heart itself. Between them is the pericardial cavity containing a small amount of lubricating fluid.
| Location | Lines the fibrous pericardium (parietal layer) and covers the heart (visceral layer), the two layers meeting where they reflect around the great vessels. |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Phrenic nerves (parietal layer); Cardiac plexus (visceral layer) |
| Blood Supply | Pericardiacophrenic arteries (parietal layer); Coronary arteries (visceral layer) |
Secretes and contains about 15-50 mL of serous fluid that lets the heart slide smoothly against its surroundings with each beat.
Inflammation of the serous layers causes the classic friction rub heard with a stethoscope. Viral infection is the most common cause of pericarditis in otherwise healthy people, and athletes are usually advised to avoid competitive sport until symptoms and inflammatory markers have settled. The parietal layer is sensitive to pain through the phrenic nerves, while the visceral layer is not.
Excess fluid between the serous layers from inflammation, infection, cancer, kidney failure or hypothyroidism. Large or rapid effusions can cause tamponade.
Inflammation of the serous layers causing sharp chest pain, a friction rub and typical ECG changes. Most cases settle with anti-inflammatory treatment.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
