Serous fluid

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Serous Fluid

Serous fluid (/ˈsɪərəs/; from the Latin serosus, meaning "rich in serum") is a clear, pale yellow bodily fluid that is secreted by the serous membranes in the body. It originates from the blood and derives its name from its resemblance to serum, the component that remains after blood has clotted and the blood cells have been removed.

Etymology

The term "serous" is derived from the Latin word serosus, which means "rich in serum". The word "serum" is also Latin and refers to the watery portion of animal fluids that remain after coagulation.

Function

Serous fluid serves several important functions in the body. It acts as a lubricant between the layers of the serous membrane, reducing friction and allowing smooth movement of organs within the body cavities. It also aids in the transport of nutrients and waste products, and plays a role in immune response by containing antibodies and white blood cells.

Related Terms

  • Serous Membrane: The tissue that secretes serous fluid and lines the internal body cavities.
  • Serum: The clear, yellowish fluid that remains from blood plasma after clotting factors have been removed.
  • Pleural Effusion: A condition characterized by an excess of serous fluid in the pleural cavity, the space between the lungs and the chest wall.
  • Peritoneal Fluid: A subtype of serous fluid that is found in the peritoneal cavity, the space within the abdomen that contains the intestines, stomach, and liver.
  • Pericardial Fluid: A subtype of serous fluid that is found in the pericardial cavity, the space within the heart that contains the heart itself.

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