Synovial bursa

Synovial bursa
Within the knee joint: bursae visible top right and bottom right
Typical joint
Latin bursa synovialis
Gray's subject #68 283
MeSH Bursa,+Synovial
Code TH H3.03.00.0.00039

A bursa (plural bursae) is a small fluid-filled sac lined by synovial membrane with an inner capillary layer of slimy fluid (similar in consistency to that of a raw egg white). It provides a cushion between bones and tendons and/or muscles around a joint. This helps to reduce friction between the bones and allows free movement. Bursae are filled with synovial fluid and are found around most major joints of the body.

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Etymology

Bursa is Latin for purse, due to its resemblance to a purse. There are different types of bursa. Bursae is its plural form.

Pathology

Infection or irritation of a bursa leads to bursitis (inflammation of a bursa). The general term for disease of bursae is "bursopathy". Current medical studies have no specific knowledge of the entire bursae system.

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