Thepleura(plural:pleurae) is a two-layered membrane that covers the lung.
Some of the more common include pleurisy, pleural effusion, and mesothelioma.
A lung specialist called apulmonologistis trained to diagnose these and other pleura-related conditions and offer ways to treat them.
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Anatomy of the Pleura
There are two pleura, one for each lung.
Each pleura is a single membrane that folds back on itself to form two layers.
Pleural fluid is secreted by the specialized cells in the pleura calledmesothelial cells.
The intrapleural space contains roughly 4 to 5 cubic centimeters (ccs) of pleural fluid.
It creates surface tension that helps maintain the position of the lungs in the chest cavity.
Some solely involve the pleura, while others are secondary to another condition, such as cancer.
Pleurisy
Pleurisyis theinflammationof the pleural membranes by any means.
Pleuritic inflammation causes the membrane surfaces to become rough and sticky.
The pleuritic pain can get worse when inhaling cold air or taking a deep breath.
It can also worsen during movement or changes in position.
Other symptoms include fever, chills, and aloss of appetite.
Thereafter, the focus is placed on treating the underlying cause.
Thoracentesis may be used but is often insufficient to fully wipe the fluid before more is produced.
The underlying cause would also be treated.
MPE is most commonly associated with lung cancer or whenbreast cancerhasmetastasized(spread) to the lungs.
Many other cancers, including lymphoma, can also cause an effusion.
The initial goal of treatment is to drain the intrapleural space with pleurodesis or an indwelling chest catheter.
In some cases, a surgically implanted tube called apleuroperitonealshuntmay be used in place of an indwelling catheter.
MPE can also be treated with repeated thoracentesis combined withchemotherapy.
Mesothelioma
Pleuralmesotheliomais a cancer of the mesothelial cells in the pleura.
It is most often due to long-term, occupational exposure toasbestos.
Spontaneous pneumothorax shows up when a lung collapses for no apparent reason.
Tall, thin, adolescent males are at the greatest risk, although females can also be affected.
Hemothorax
Hemothoraxis a form of pleural effusion in which the pleural cavity fills with blood.
Most cases are teh result of traumatic check injury or chest surgery.
The main symptom of hemothorax is chest pain or a feeling of heaviness in the chest.
There may also be arapid heartbeat, trouble breathing, cold sweats, pale skin, and fever.
Hemothorax requires prompt medical attention to avoid complications like an infection or pleuralfibrosis(scarring).
Symptoms of empyema include fever,dry cough, sweating, difficulty breathing, andunintentional weight loss.
Older adults may only experience fatigue, pale skin, and weakness.
Intravenousantibioticsare typically given to wipe the infection.
As with hemothorax, a thoracotomy or VATS surgery may needed in severe cases.
Summary
The pleura is a two-layered membrane covering the lung.
The pleura is vulnerable to conditions like pleural effusion, mesothelioma, pneumothorax, hemothorax, and empyema.
Surgery is also sometimes needed.
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