Compendium 1 - Serous membranes

Question 1

What are Serous Membranes?

Answer 1

They line the cavities in the trunk of the body and cover the organs within these cavities.

Question 2

How many layers are there in the membrane, name them and describe where they are situated?

Answer 2

2 layers: parietal and visceral. Parietal lines the trunk cavity whereas Visceral lines the organs.

Question 3

What does the serous membrane produce and what is its function?

Answer 3

Produces serous fluid which fills the cavity between the two layers and also acts as a lubricant between the organ and body wall.

Question 4

What membrane covers the heart?

Answer 4

Pericardium (parietal & visceral)

Question 5

What membrane covers the lungs and thoracic cavity?

Answer 5

Pleura (parietal & visceral)

Question 6

What membrane covers the abdominopelvic cavity?

Answer 6

Peritoneum [(parietal & visceral), retro-peritoneal organs = behind]