Types and Functions of Tissue Membranes

Tissue membrane

Thin layer of cells covering body surfaces.

Connective tissue membranes

Membranes formed solely from connective tissue.

Epithelial membranes

Membranes composed of epithelium and connective tissue.

Mucous membranes

Line tracts open to the exterior, secreting mucus.

Serous membranes

Line closed body cavities, reducing friction.

Cutaneous membrane

Skin covering the body's external surface.

Synovial membranes

Line joint cavities, producing synovial fluid.

Pericardium

Membrane surrounding the heart, reducing friction.

Pleura

Membrane surrounding lungs, reducing friction.

Peritoneum

Membrane surrounding abdominal organs, reducing friction.

Lamina propria

Connective tissue supporting the epithelial layer.

Mucosae

Epithelial membranes lining external-opening cavities.

Stratified squamous epithelium

Multiple layers of flat epithelial cells.

Mesothelium

Epithelial layer of serous membranes.

Parietal layer

Lines walls of body cavities.

Visceral layer

Covers organs within body cavities.

Serous space

Thin fluid-filled space between serous layers.

Synovial fluid

Lubricates joints, produced by synovial membranes.

Serous cavity

Cavity lined by serous membranes.

Epithelial exocrine glands

Glands producing mucus in mucous membranes.

Keratinized cells

Dead cells protecting against desiccation and pathogens.

Inflated balloon analogy

Describes serous membrane layers around organs.