Question

What is the structure, function and location of pleura, pericardium and peritoneum?

Answer 1

Hint: The respiratory (breathing) mechanism revolves around the lungs. The heart is the pumping organ of the body and pumps blood to various parts of our body. Circulation of blood and various other respiratory materials is called the circulatory system.

Complete answer:
a) Pleura:
Location: The pleural cavity covers the lung, rather than being enclosed within it.
Structure: The structure of Pleura is such that there are two-layered membranous structures that are made up of serous membranes that fold back on themselves. The outer pleura (parietal pleura) is attached to the chest wall, while the inner pleura (visceral pleura) covers the lungs and their surrounding structures through blood vessels, bronchi, and nerves.
Function: The pleura is made up of two thin layers of tissue that protects and cushions the lungs. The pleura's job is to allow the lungs to expand and contract as needed during breathing.

b) Pericardium:
Location: The pericardium is a layer that surrounds the heart forming a pouch-like structure.
Structure: The pericardium, also known as the pericardial sac, is a double-walled sac that houses the heart and the great vessel origin. It is divided into two layers: an outer layer of solid connective tissue (fibrous pericardium) and an inner layer of serous membrane (serous pericardium).
Function: The pericardium protects the heart and large vessels mechanically and serves as a lubricant to minimise tension between the heart and the surrounding structures.

c) Peritoneum:
Location: The peritoneum is a serous membrane that covers abdominal and pelvic organs and forms the walls of the abdominal cavity.
Structure: The peritoneal cavity is situated between the parietal and visceral layers. The peritoneum supports and protects the organs of the abdomen and pelvis. The superficial parietal layer and the deep visceral layer are the two layers of the peritoneum.
Function: The peritoneum protects and supports the abdominal organs while also acting as an outlet for nerves, blood vessels, and lymphatics.

Note: Most organs and cavities in the body are covered by epithelium. It also acts as a buffer, separating the various body systems. Epithelial tissue makes up the skin, the lining of the mouth, the lining of blood vessels, lung alveoli, and kidney tubules.