Endocardial

/ˌɛndoʊˈkɑrdiəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or affecting the endocardium, the innermost layer of the heart wall that lines the heart chambers and valves.

Etymology

From 'endocardium' + '-al' (relating to). This anatomical term is the most common form used in medical literature since the 1800s to describe the heart's inner lining.

Kelly Says

Endocardial damage from rheumatic fever can cause lifelong heart problems because scar tissue forms on those precious inner surfaces where blood needs to flow smoothly.

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