Question

What is the function of pericardial fluid and where it is found?

Answer 1

Hint: The pericardial fluid is directly in contact with the visceral layer of the heart. Thus, it is the fluid present between the parietal and visceral layer. The space between the layers normally contains a thin layer of the fluid.

Complete answer: The pericardial fluid is the serous fluid which is secreted by the serous layer of the pericardium into the pericardial cavity. The pericardium has two layers; fibrous pericardium, which is the outer layer attached to the diaphragm and serous pericardium, which is further divided into two i.e. the visceral and the parietal layer. The pericardial fluid is in direct contact with the visceral layer of the heart. This pericardial fluid is the product of ultrafiltration. The fluid acts as a lubricant for the movement of the heart and reduces friction as the heart pumps blood. It is considered to be drained by lymphatic capillary bed mainly. The pericardial fluid contains a high concentration of LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), protein and the lymphocytes. The pericardial fluid protects the heart from any infections that might spread from nearby organs like the lungs, etc. There are approximately 10-50 ml of the pericardial fluid.

Note: Excess of pericardial fluid present between the layers can cause pericardial effusion which includes diseases that cause inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis, infection, kidney failure, cancer, etc. The excess fluid from pericardial effusion can cause intense pressure on your heart and damage it.