Which term describes the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity?

The term that describes the membrane lining the abdominal cavity is the peritoneum. This serous membrane plays a crucial role in supporting the abdominal organs and facilitates movement between these organs by reducing friction. It is divided into two layers: the visceral peritoneum, which covers the organs, and the parietal peritoneum, which lines the abdominal wall.

Understanding the role of the peritoneum is important in various medical contexts, including surgeries and diagnoses of abdominal conditions. The term mesentery refers to a fold of peritoneum that attaches to the intestines and supports blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatics, while the term parietal specifically refers to the layer of the peritoneum that lines the abdominal wall but does not encompass the entire membrane function. The cell membrane, on the other hand, is a structure found in all cells and is not related to the abdomen. Therefore, peritoneum is the most accurate term for the membrane lining the abdominal cavity.