Serous Health Dictionary

Membranes that line many internal organs and cavities, secreting a thin, lymph-like fluid, that lubricates and slowly circulates.... serous membranes

shallow *retinal detachment in the area of the macula due to a localized leakage through the retinal pigment epithelium (see retina) into the subretinal space. The cause is unknown. It affects young adult males, causing reduced or distorted central vision that usually settles in a few months.... central serous chorioretinopathy

(serosa) a smooth transparent membrane, consisting of *mesothelium and underlying elastic fibrous connective tissue, lining certain large cavities of the body. The *peritoneum of the abdomen, *pleura of the chest, and *pericardium of the heart are all serous membranes. Each consists of two portions: the parietal portion lines the walls of the cavity, and the visceral portion covers the organs concerned. The two are continuous, forming a closed sac with the organs essentially outside the sac. The inner surface of the sac is moistened by a thin fluid derived from blood serum, which allows frictionless movement of organs within their cavities. Compare mucous membrane.... serous membrane