Pleuraditis

Pleuraditis, also known as pleurisy or pleuritis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the pleura. The pleura is a pair of large, thin membranes that surround the lungs and line the inner chest wall. Each membrane has two layers: one that covers the lungs (visceral pleura) and one that lines the chest cavity (parietal pleura). Between these two layers is a small space called the pleural cavity, which normally contains a small amount of lubricating fluid.

When the pleura becomes inflamed, the two layers can rub against each other during breathing. This friction causes a sharp, stabbing pain, often referred to as pleuritic chest pain. The pain is typically worse with deep breathing, coughing, or sneezing. In some cases, a pleural friction rub, a grating sound audible with a stethoscope, may be heard. Pleuraditis can also be associated with other symptoms depending on the underlying cause, such as fever, chills, shortness of breath, or a cough.

The causes of pleuraditis are varied. It can be triggered by infections, such as pneumonia or tuberculosis, viral illnesses, or fungal infections. Other causes include pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung), autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, cancer that has spread to the pleura, or trauma to the chest. Less commonly, it can be a side effect of certain medications or related to inflammatory conditions not originating in the chest.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, imaging tests such as chest X-rays or CT scans, and sometimes blood tests or pleural fluid analysis if a buildup of fluid (pleural effusion) is present. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and managing the pain. This may include antibiotics for bacterial infections, anti-inflammatory medications, or other specific therapies depending on the diagnosis.