Pericardiac refers to the outer layer of the heart, the pericardium. The word is spelled p-e-r-i-c-a-r-d-i-a-c, with the stress on the second syllable: /ˌperɪˈkɑːdiæk/. The "p" is pronounced with aspiration, meaning a brief release of air, while the "e" is pronounced as a short vowel. The "r" is pronounced with a slight trill, as in the Spanish "r". The "i" is pronounced as a long vowel, and the "a" is pronounced as a short vowel with a schwa sound before the stressed syllable. The "c" is pronounced as a hard "k" sound.
Pericardiac is an adjective that describes anything related to the pericardium, which is a dual-layered sac that surrounds and protects the heart. The pericardium consists of two layers: the fibrous pericardium and the serous pericardium.
The fibrous pericardium is the tough, outer layer that serves as a protective covering for the heart. It prevents overexpansion of the heart, helps keep it in position within the chest cavity, and acts as a barrier against infection and inflammation. It is composed of dense connective tissue.
The serous pericardium is the inner layer of the pericardium and is further divided into two sub-layers: the parietal pericardium and the visceral pericardium. The parietal pericardium lines the fibrous pericardium and is separated from the visceral pericardium by a small cavity called the pericardial cavity. The visceral pericardium, also known as the epicardium, directly covers the surface of the heart.
Understanding the concept of pericardiac is crucial for medical professionals, as it helps in accurately describing and diagnosing various heart-related conditions and diseases. For instance, pericarditis refers to the inflammation of the pericardium, and pericardial effusion describes the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial cavity. By using the term pericardiac, medical professionals can effectively communicate and discuss matters related to the pericardium and its associated structures and functions.
Pert. to the pericardium.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pericardiac" is composed of two morphemes: "peri-" and "cardiac".
The prefix "peri-" is derived from the Greek word "peri", which means "around" or "about". It is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate something situated around or near a particular organ or structure.
The term "cardiac" comes from the Greek word "kardia", meaning "heart". It refers to anything relating to the heart or the cardiovascular system.
Therefore, the word "pericardiac" combines these two elements to form a term that describes something situated or occurring around or near the heart.