Splanchnology

Question 1

Splanchnology

Answer 1

• Many of the organs of the various organ systems lie within the body cavities –> thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic
• the​ Various organs are surrounded by “potential spaces”–> allow free movement of the heart, lungs, and abdominal organs to occur.
• These potential spaces include:

1. Pericardial cavity: around the heart
2. Pleural Cavity: around the lungs
3. Peritoneal cavity: around the abdomino-pelvic organs

Question 2

Serous Membrane

Answer 2

• A potential cavity is surrounded by a serous membrane - pericardium, pleura or peritoneum
• These consist of:

1. an outer layer related to body wall structures, the parietal layer
2. an inner layer which invests the appropriate organ(s), the visceral layer

• Between the two lies the potential space, which contains only a lubricating film of thin watery, serous fluid produced by the serous membrane
• A serous membrane must be the distinguished from a mucous membrane. This is the innermost layer of the various tubular organs and produces a film of thick viscous or mucous secretion on its surface for lubricating purposes