MEDICAL BIOLOGY, HUMAN ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY AND PATHOLOGY - Ya.I. Fedoniuk 2010

ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, PATHOLOGY

CHAPTER 6. THE RESPIRATORY PROCESS AND ITS PATHOLOGY

THE DOCTRINE OF VISCERA - SPLANCHNOLOGY

Splanchnology (splanchnologia) is the branch of anatomy dedicated to the viscera. Viscera (splanchna in Greek, viscera in Latin) are Internal Organs located within Body Cavities (oral, neck, thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic cavities) that mediate metabolic processes between the Organism and the external environment, while the reproductive organs perform the function of propagation. The term "internal organs" is broader, encompassing all structures situated beneath the Skin.

The viscera are grouped into systems: the respiratory, digestive, and urogenital systems.

The thoracic and abdominal cavities are lined with a serous membrane that partially anchors the internal organs. This membrane consists of Connective Tissue whose outer surface is covered by a single-layered squamous epithelium. It reduces friction between organs during movement. In areas lacking a serous membrane, the organs are covered by Fibrous connective tissue known as the adventitia. Beneath the adventitia (or serous membrane) lie the muscular coat, submucosa, and mucous membrane.

The mucous membrane (mucosa) lines hollow organs from within. It contains glands and specialized epithelial Cells that secrete mucus, while embedded lymphoid follicles perform a protective function. The muscular coat typically consists of two layers: an inner circular layer and an outer longitudinal layer.



Last update: 08/08/2026

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