Mediastinal pleura

Mediastinal Pleura is a part of the pleura, the thin serous membrane around the lungs, which is involved in the division and compartmentalization of the thoracic cavity. The mediastinal pleura specifically lines the mediastinum, the central compartment of the thoracic cavity that contains the heart, esophagus, trachea, phrenic and cardiac nerves, thoracic duct, thymus, and lymph nodes of the central chest.

Anatomy

The mediastinal pleura is a portion of the parietal pleura, which lines the thoracic cavity. It extends from the sternum in the front of the chest to the vertebral column at the back, and from the neck to the diaphragm. It is continuous with the visceral pleura, which covers the lungs, at the hilum of the lung.

Function

The primary function of the mediastinal pleura, like the rest of the pleura, is to aid in the mechanics of breathing. The pleura produces pleural fluid that lubricates the pleural surfaces, allowing the lungs to expand and contract smoothly within the thoracic cavity during respiration.

Clinical significance

Diseases of the pleura, such as pleurisy, pleural effusion, and mesothelioma, can affect the mediastinal pleura. Symptoms of these conditions can include chest pain, cough, and shortness of breath. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as chest X-ray or CT scan, and may also include pleural fluid analysis or biopsy.

See also

• Pleura
• Parietal pleura
• Visceral pleura
• Pleural cavity
• Pleural disease