Visceral

Visceral refers to the internal organs of the body, specifically those within the chest (such as the heart or lungs) or abdomen (like the liver, pancreas, or intestines). The term is derived from Latin viscus, meaning "organ". In a medical context, the term visceral is used to refer to the internal organs and their functions, as opposed to the superficial or outward aspects of health.

Anatomy

Visceral organs are those that are located within the body cavities, and are covered by the visceral layer of the serous membranes. These include the organs within the thoracic cavity, such as the heart and lungs, and those within the abdominal cavity, such as the stomach, liver, and intestines. The term visceral is often used in contrast to parietal, which refers to the walls of a body cavity.

Visceral Pain

Visceral pain is a type of pain that originates from the internal organs. It is often described as a deep, aching sensation, and can be difficult to localize. Visceral pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.

Visceral Fat

Visceral fat is a type of body fat that is stored within the abdominal cavity. It is also known as "active fat" because it can actively increase the risk of serious health problems. High levels of visceral fat can lead to metabolic disturbances and increased risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

See Also

• Parietal (anatomy)
• Somatic pain
• Abdominal obesity

References

Visceral Resources
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