Pleurafluid

Pleurafluid is the thin layer of serous fluid found in the pleural cavity, the space between the two layers of pleura. The pleura are two membranes that line the lungs and the inner chest wall. The visceral pleura covers the outer surface of the lungs, and the parietal pleura lines the inner surface of the chest cavity. Pleurafluid acts as a lubricant, allowing the lungs to move smoothly against the chest wall during breathing.

The pleural cavity normally contains a small amount of pleurafluid, typically about 10 to 20 milliliters in each pleural space. This fluid is produced by the mesothelial cells lining the pleura and is constantly being reabsorbed. The fluid has a composition similar to plasma but with lower protein and cell counts. Its primary function is to reduce friction and facilitate the gliding of the pleural membranes over each other during respiration.

An excess accumulation of pleurafluid in the pleural cavity is known as pleural effusion. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, inflammation, heart failure, kidney disease, and cancer. Pleural effusion can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and cough. Diagnosis often involves imaging techniques like chest X-rays or ultrasound, and treatment depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, the excess fluid may be removed through a procedure called thoracentesis.