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The mesothelium is a special type of membrane that covers and protects the majority of the internal organs of the human body. It consists of two layers of cells, the first of which surrounds the organ itself while the other forms a protective sac around it.
The mesothelium produces a very important fluid that is released between these layers and lubricates them, enabling the expanding and contracting organs (including the lungs) to slide gently against adjacent parts of the body.
Mesothelium membranes are found in several locations in the body. The ones that protect the majority of the organs located in the abdominal cavity are called the peritoneum.
The membrane that protects the lungs and lines the wall of the chest cavity is called the pleura.
The heart is covered and protected by the pericardium.
The mesothelial membrane tissue that surrounds the internal male reproductive organs is called the tunica vaginalis testis, while the tunica serosa uteri protects the internal reproductive organs of females.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a very serious type of cancer in the mesothelium. Mesothelioma is a disease where the cells of the mesothelium membrane are out of control and divide quickly in a manner not consistent with normal cell growth.
These abnormal Mesothelioma cells also invade and damage nearby tissues and organs if not detected and treated. Cancer cells will eventually spread from the original Mesothelioma site to other parts of the body. Mesothelioma begins in the pleura or peritoneum membranes in most cases, but they can start in any of the mesothelial tissues.
More detailed information about Mesothelioma:
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