Anatomy and Physiology of the Pleura

Pleural Recesses and Their Clinical Significance

The pleura is a serous membrane surrounding the lungs, providing lubrication and facilitating lung movement within the thoracic cavity. It consists of two layers: the visceral pleura, covering the lungs, and the parietal pleura, lining the chest wall.

Pleural Recesses

Pleural recesses are potential spaces that expand during respiration. The main recesses include:

• Costodiaphragmatic Recess: Located at the junction of the diaphragm and rib cage, crucial for lung expansion.
• Costomediastinal Recess: Found near the anterior chest wall, allowing lung inflation.

Clinical Significance

Pleural recesses play a key role in pulmonary pathology. Conditions such as pleural effusion can accumulate fluid within these spaces, affecting lung function. Thoracocentesis is often performed to remove excess fluid from the recesses.

Conclusion

Understanding pleural anatomy aids in diagnosing respiratory conditions and guiding clinical interventions.