Pleural cavity

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Pleural cavities)

 Definition[edit | edit source]

The pleural cavity in the thorax that contains the lungs and heart and is a potential space that can expand in certain disease states.

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Bilateral pleural effusions turning out to be urinothorax

What is pleura?[edit | edit source]

The pleura is a large, thin sheet of tissue that wraps around the outside of your lungs and lines the inside of your chest cavity.

Pleural space[edit | edit source]

Between the layers of the pleura is a very thin space. Normally it's filled with a small amount of fluid.

Pleural fluid[edit | edit source]

The fluid helps the two layers of the pleura glide smoothly past each other as your lungs breathe air in and out.

Pleural space
Pleural space

Disorders of the pleura[edit | edit source]

  • Pleurisy - inflammation of the pleura that causes sharp pain with breathing
  • Pleural effusion - excess fluid in the pleural space
  • Pneumothorax - buildup of air or gas in the pleural space
  • Hemothorax - buildup of blood in the pleural space

Causes of pleural problems[edit | edit source]

  • Many different conditions can cause pleural problems.
  • Viral infection is the most common cause of pleurisy.
  • The most common cause of pleural effusion is congestive heart failure.
  • Lung diseases, like COPD, tuberculosis, and acute lung injury, cause pneumothorax.
  • Injury to the chest is the most common cause of hemothorax.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis includes history and physical examination, Chest X ray, CT scan, Ultrasound and sometimes tapping the pleural fluid using a procedure called pleural tap.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment focuses on removing fluid, air, or blood from the pleural space, relieving symptoms, and treating the underlying condition.



Pleural cavity Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD