pleural space

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pleural space

The doctor examines an X-ray showing fluid in the pleural space.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • The small potential space between the parietal and visceral layers of the pleura: The pleural space is a thin, fluid-filled cavity that separates the two membranes (pleurae) lining the lungs and the chest wall. It is not an actual open space but a potential one, containing a small amount of lubricating fluid to allow the lungs to expand and contract smoothly during breathing.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • A pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space, causing the lung to collapse.
    • Doctors drained the excess fluid from the pleural space to relieve the patient's breathing difficulty.
    • The pleural space normally contains only a few milliliters of serous fluid.
Advanced Usage

  • "To enter the pleural space": Refers to air, fluid, or other substances abnormally collecting in this cavity.

    • In some injuries, blood can enter the pleural space, creating a hemothorax.

  • "Pleural space involvement": Used in medical contexts to indicate that a disease process, such as infection or cancer, has spread to or affected this area.

    • The scan showed pleural space involvement, indicating the infection had spread.
Variants and Related Words

  • Pleura (n): The thin, double-layered membrane itself. The outer layer is the parietal pleura (lining the chest wall), and the inner layer is the visceral pleura (covering the lungs).

    • Inflammation of the pleura is called pleurisy.

  • Pleural (adj): Relating to the pleura or the pleural space.

    • The patient had a pleural effusion, which is a buildup of fluid in the pleural space.

  • Intrapleural (adj): Situated within or administered into the pleural space.

    • An intrapleural catheter was placed to drain the fluid.
Synonyms
  • Pleural cavity: A more general term often used interchangeably with "pleural space," though it can sometimes refer to the entire potential area.
  • Interpleural space: A less common synonym with the same meaning.
Related Phrases
  • Pleural effusion: The abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural space.
  • Pneumothorax: The presence of air or gas in the pleural space.
  • Hemothorax: The presence of blood in the pleural space.
pleural space

The doctor examines an X-ray showing fluid in the pleural space.

Noun
  1. the small potential space between the parietal and visceral layers of the pleura