Which layer forms the outer surface of the heart wall?

Which layer forms the outer surface of the heart wall?

• A. Endocardium
• B. Myocardium
• C. Epicardium
• D. Pericardium

Answer: (C)

Epicardium is the outer surface of the heart wall. It’s the visceral layer of the serous pericardium that directly covers the heart and provides a smooth, lubricated surface as the heart beats. Beneath it sits the muscular middle layer, the myocardium, which contracts to pump blood, and the innermost lining, the endocardium, which lines the chambers and valves. The pericardium surrounds the heart as a protective sac, with the epicardium forming the portion that actually contacts the heart itself.

Epicardium is the outer surface of the heart wall. It’s the visceral layer of the serous pericardium that directly covers the heart and provides a smooth, lubricated surface as the heart beats. Beneath it sits the muscular middle layer, the myocardium, which contracts to pump blood, and the innermost lining, the endocardium, which lines the chambers and valves. The pericardium surrounds the heart as a protective sac, with the epicardium forming the portion that actually contacts the heart itself.