This site is intended for healthcare professionals

Go to /sign-in page

You can view 5 more pages before signing in

Epicardium (heart, histology)

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

The epicardium of the heart is the layer of the heart wall immediately superficial to the myocardium and deep to the pericardial cavity. It forms the innermost, visceral layer of the serous pericardium.

It is formed from a layer of contiguous mesothelial cells. On the outermost surface, these secrete a film of fluid that lubricates the pericardial cavity.

Deep to this layer is a layer of loose connective tissue rich in adipocytes that conforms to the superficial myocardial surface. It passes into the grooves of the heart and ensheaths the:

  • main coronary vessels
  • parasympathetic ganglia

Create an account to add page annotations

Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.

The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Connect

Copyright 2024 Oxbridge Solutions Limited, a subsidiary of OmniaMed Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Any distribution or duplication of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Oxbridge Solutions receives funding from advertising but maintains editorial independence.