Pleural fluid is located between the layers of the pleura, which are thin membranes lining your lungs and the inside of your chest cavity. This space is also known as the pleural space.
Understanding the Pleura and Pleural Fluid
The pleura consists of two layers:
- Visceral pleura: This layer directly covers the lungs.
- Parietal pleura: This layer lines the inner surface of the chest wall, the diaphragm, and the mediastinum (the space between the lungs).
Normally, there is a small amount of fluid in the pleural space that acts as a lubricant, allowing the two layers of the pleura to slide smoothly against each other during breathing.
Pleural Effusion: What Happens When There is Too Much Fluid
When there is an abnormal buildup of fluid in the pleural space, it is called a pleural effusion. This is sometimes referred to as “water on the lungs."
- Excess fluid: This excess fluid can be caused by various medical conditions, including infections, heart failure, and cancer.
- Impact on breathing: Pleural effusions can compress the lungs, leading to shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing.
- Treatment: Treatment for pleural effusions typically involves addressing the underlying cause and may include draining the excess fluid.
| Layer | Location | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Visceral Pleura | Covers the surface of the lungs | Allows smooth movement against the parietal pleura during breathing |
| Parietal Pleura | Lines the inner surface of the chest wall, diaphragm, and mediastinum | Protects the lungs and other chest cavity structures from abrasion |
| Pleural Space | The space between the visceral and parietal pleura; contains pleural fluid | Contains a small amount of fluid to lubricate and facilitate lung movement |
In conclusion, pleural fluid is situated in the pleural space, which is the area between the two layers of the pleura, outside the lungs, and inside the chest cavity.
