Visceral pleura
Visceral Pleura
The Visceral Pleura (/vɪˈsɛrəl ˈplʊərə/) is an integral part of the pleural cavity that covers the surface of the lungs and dips into the fissures between the lobes.
Etymology
The term "Visceral Pleura" is derived from the Latin word "viscera", meaning "internal organs", and the Greek word "pleura", which means "side" or "rib". Thus, the term essentially refers to the membrane that covers the internal organs, specifically the lungs.
Function
The Visceral Pleura, along with the Parietal Pleura, helps in the creation of the pleural cavity. The main function of the Visceral Pleura is to protect the lungs from friction against the chest wall during respiration. It secretes a lubricating pleural fluid that allows smooth movement of the lungs during breathing.
Related Terms
- Pleura: The general term for the serous membranes lining the thorax and enveloping the lungs.
- Parietal Pleura: The outer layer of the pleura that lines the inner surface of the chest wall and diaphragm.
- Pleural Cavity: The potential space between the two pleurae of the lungs.
- Pleural Fluid: The serous fluid secreted by the pleurae that reduces friction during respiratory movements.
- Respiration: The process of inhaling and exhaling air in order to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and the atmosphere.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Visceral pleura
- Wikipedia's article - Visceral pleura
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