Anatomy and Physiology: Tissue Membranes, Inflammation, and Repair

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers tissue membrane types, the mechanics of inflammation, and the processes of tissue repair and regeneration based on lecture notes.

Mucous membrane

Membranes that line cavities opening to the outside of the body (such as the digestive, respiratory, and reproductive systems) and consist of epithelial cells, a basement membrane, and a thick layer of connective tissue.

Serous membrane

Thin, smooth membranes that line body cavities that do not open to the exterior and cover organs to reduce friction during movement.

Serous fluid

A small amount of fluid secreted by serous membranes to lubricate surfaces, protect internal organs from friction, and act as a selectively permeable barrier.

Serous cavities

Small spaces located between the two layers of a serous membrane that contain serous fluid to reduce friction as organs move.

Pericardial cavity

A type of serous cavity that does not open to the exterior of the body, specifically surrounding the heart.

Pleural cavity

A type of serous cavity that does not open to the exterior of the body, specifically surrounding the lungs (right and left).

Peritoneal cavity

A type of serous cavity that does not open to the exterior of the body, specifically located within the abdomen.

Synovial Membranes

Membranes that line the cavities of freely movable joints, such as the knee, elbow, shoulder, hip, wrist, and finger joints.

Synovial fluid

A slippery fluid produced by the synovial membrane that reduces friction, lubricates joints, and nourishes the cartilages.

Inflammation

A process that occurs when tissues are damaged, characterized by five major symptoms: redness, heat, swelling, pain, and disturbance of function.

Tissue Repair

The process of substituting viable cells for dead cells following injury.

Regeneration

A form of tissue repair where new cells are of the same type as those destroyed, usually resulting in the restoration of normal function.

Replacement

A form of tissue repair where a new type of tissue develops, producing a scar and causing the loss of some tissue function.

Liver regeneration threshold

The physiological ability of the liver to regenerate itself completely even if as little as $25\%$ of it remains.

Histamine

A chemical signal released during tissue injury that causes dilation and increased leakiness of the capillary.

Phagocytes

Cells that migrate to the area of injury to consume bacteria and cell debris.

Platelets

Components that move out of the capillary to seal the wounded area during the tissue injury response.