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Pericardium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pericardium

[ˌpɛrɪˈkɑːrdiəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy, biology

The pericardium is a double-walled sac that encloses the heart and the roots of the great blood vessels. It serves several important functions, including protecting the heart from infections and providing a lubricated environment that allows the heart to move freely as it beats. The pericardium consists of two layers: the fibrous pericardium, which is the tough outer layer, and the serous pericardium, which is further divided into the parietal and visceral layers. The space between the two serous layers contains pericardial fluid, which reduces friction during heart contractions. Abnormalities of the pericardium can lead to various medical conditions, such as pericarditis.

Synonyms

heart sac, pericardial sac.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor examined the pericardium for signs of inflammation.
  • Effusions in the pericardium can lead to serious complications.
  • Surgery may be required to address issues with the pericardium.
  • An ultrasound revealed fluid accumulation around the pericardium.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • The pericardium has two main layers: the fibrous pericardium (outer layer) and the serous pericardium (inner layer), which produces fluid.
  • Fluid in the pericardial space helps lubricate the heart, allowing it to move smoothly during each heartbeat.

Medical Significance

  • Inflammation of the pericardium, known as pericarditis, can cause sharp chest pain and is often due to infection or injury.
  • Excess fluid accumulation in the pericardial space can lead to cardiac tamponade, a serious condition where the heart is unable to pump effectively.

Cultural References

  • In literature, the heart often symbolizes emotion, and the pericardium represents protection against emotional harm.
  • Some artists depict the heart enclosed within various barriers, mirroring the function of the pericardium in safeguarding the heart.

Evolutionary Biology

  • The pericardium is found in many vertebrates, indicating its evolutionary importance in protecting the heart across species.
  • Different animals have variations of the pericardium suited to their lifestyles, showing adaptation over time.

Origin of 'pericardium'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pericardium' comes from the Greek 'peri-', meaning 'around', and 'kardia', meaning 'heart'.
  • The concept of the pericardium has been studied since ancient times; Hippocrates mentioned it as part of his studies of the heart.

The term 'pericardium' originates from the Greek words 'peri', meaning 'around', and 'kardia', meaning 'heart'. This compound reflects the anatomical function of this structure, which encompasses and protects the heart. The use of the word in a medical context can be traced back to early anatomical studies where the structure's significance in heart physiology was recognized. The study of the pericardium has evolved alongside advancements in medical imaging and understanding of cardiovascular diseases, making it an essential topic in both anatomy and pathology. Historical texts from ancient civilizations indicate a keen interest in the heart, illustrating the long-standing importance of the pericardium in the study of human anatomy.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,157, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.