Corpus: Pleural cavity
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Synonyms: cavitas pleuralis, cavum pleurae, pleural cavity, pleural space, Donders space
English:
Definition[Bearbeiten]
The pleural cavity is a cleft-shaped body cavity that lies between the two leaves of the pleura.
Physiology[Bearbeiten]
The pleural cavity is filled with 5-10 ml of serous fluid, which reduces the friction between the parietal and visceral leaflets of the pleura. The negative pressure prevailing in the pleural cavity (intrapleural pressure) and the adhesion forces mediated by the fluid ensure that the two leaves adhere to each other and thus prevent the lung from collapsing.
During inspiration, the pressure difference between the pleural cavity and the outside air is around -800 Pa, at the end of expiration it is only -500 Pa (-5 cm water column). With strongly forced expiration, the intrapleural pressure can briefly assume positive values. If the glottis is closed at the same time, this value increases further (see Valsalva manoeuvre).
Clinic[Bearbeiten]
If fluid accumulates in the pleural cavity (pleural effusion), breathing is obstructed. A pleural puncture can be performed to remove the fluid.
If air enters the pleural cavity (pneumothorax), the adhesion of the pleural sheets is lost and the affected lung collapses. Pleural drainage provides a remedy.