mesothelium

views updated Jun 08 2018

mesothelium A single layer of thin platelike cells covering the surface of the inside of the abdominal cavity and thorax and surrounding the heart, forming part of the peritoneum and pleura (see serous membrane). It is derived from the mesoderm. Compare endothelium; epithelium.

A Dictionary of Biology

mesothelium

views updated May 14 2018

mesothelium (mes-oh-th'ee-liŭm) n. the single layer of cells that lines serous membranes. It is derived from embryonic mesoderm. Compare epithelium.

A Dictionary of Nursing

mesothelium

views updated Jun 11 2018

mesothelium See SEROUS MEMBRANE.

A Dictionary of Zoology MICHAEL ALLABY

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Mesothelium

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