ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -The pericardium is the outside layer that does not compose part of the heart. It houses fluid that reduces friction to the heart and protects it as it pumps. The epicardium is the outermost layer of the heart and is sometimes referred to as the visceral pericardium.

Detailed explanation-2: -The pericardium acts as mechanical protection for the heart and big vessels, and a lubrication to reduce friction between the heart and the surrounding structures.

Detailed explanation-3: -The epicardium comprises part of the pericardium, forming the visceral portion of the serous layer. The epicardium serves many functions, including protecting the heart, producing factors that help the cardiac cells properly develop, and ensuring proper response to cardiac cell injury.

Detailed explanation-4: -The walls of the heart are composed of three layers: Epicardium-the outer layer. Myocardium-the middle, muscular layer. Endocardium-the inner layer.

Detailed explanation-5: -The epicardium is a thin layer of elastic connective tissue and fat that serves as an additional layer of protection from trauma or friction for the heart under the pericardium. This layer contains the coronary blood vessels, which oxygenate the tissues of the heart with a blood supply from the coronary arteries.