Pleura

/plˈɜːɹɐ/

/plˈɜːɹə/

[noun]

Pleura

[NOUN]

a thin membrane that lines the lungs and the inner surface of the chest cavity, providing a protective covering

What is "pleura"?

The pleura is a vital structure in the human body that plays a crucial role in respiration. It consists of two thin layers, the visceral and parietal pleura, which surround the lungs and line the chest cavity, respectively. The pleura helps to protect and cushion the lungs, while also allowing them to expand and contract during breathing. This double-layered membrane creates a fluid-filled space, the pleural cavity, which enables smooth movement and reduces friction between the lungs and the chest wall. The pleura's function is essential for efficient and effortless breathing, ensuring the proper functioning of the respiratory system.

Examples

1. The pleural cavity or pleural space lies between the parietal pleura which is stuck to the chest wall and the visceral pleura which is stuck to the lungs.

2. If there were no way out of the pleural space, then it would fill up with fluid, but fortunately, there are lymphatic vessels in the pleura then drain the fluid away and deliver it back into the circulatory system.

3. The pleural cavity or pleural space lies between the parietal pleura which is stuck to the chest wall and the visceral pleura which is stuck to the lungs.

4. In recent years, scientists have hotly debated whether the body tissue came from the top of the insect, known as the notum, or the side of the body, known as the pleura.