Pericardial sac

Pericardial sac is a double-walled sac that contains the heart and the roots of the great vessels. The pericardial sac has two layers, a serous layer and a fibrous layer. It encloses the pericardial cavity which contains pericardial fluid.

Structure

The pericardial sac is composed of two layers, the outer fibrous pericardium and the inner serous pericardium. The fibrous pericardium is made of dense and unyielding fibrous connective tissue. It attaches to the central part of the diaphragm and the posterior part of the sternum. The serous pericardium is thinner and more delicate. It has two layers, the parietal pericardium which is fused to the fibrous pericardium, and the visceral pericardium which is fused to the heart and is also known as the epicardium.

Function

The pericardial sac encloses the pericardial cavity. This cavity, filled with pericardial fluid, allows the heart to move and beat without friction. This fluid also allows the heart to work in a relatively pressure-free environment.

Clinical significance

Inflammation of the pericardial sac is known as pericarditis. This can be caused by various diseases such as kidney failure, bacterial infections and cancer. Symptoms of pericarditis include chest pain, fever, and increased heart rate. Treatment for pericarditis includes medication and, in severe cases, surgery.

See also

• Heart
• Pericardium
• Pericarditis

References

Pericardial sac Resources
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