Answer Happy

The heart is surrounded by the pericardial cavity Label the following structures in the diagram to the right. I • parietal pericardium • visceral pericardium • pericardial cavity • location where the visceral pericardium is continuous with the parietal pericardium fibrous pericardium Within the inset, label the following parietal pericardium fibrous pericardium pericardial cavity What important function does the fibrous pericardium serve? IN THE CLINIC Pericarditis Inflammation of the pericardial membranes, known as pericarditis, increases the friction between the two membranes and causes an overproduction of fluid. As the fluid accumulates in the pericardial cavity, the normal movements of the heart wall are inhibited, leading to a condition called cardiac tamponade Pericarditis is most often caused by a viral infection. It can also develop after a heart attack or heart surgery. Most cases can be successfully treated with over the counter or prescription anti-inflammatory drugs. For severe or recurrent cases pericardiocentesis may be performed. During this procedure, a needle is inserted into the pericardial cavity to remove excess fluid. MAKING CONNECTIONS Explain why the heart is surrounded by, but not within, the pericardial cavity. EXERCSE21 Gs Anatomy of the Heart 375