Posted by lae2 on August 13, 2013 at 22:47:44:
In Reply to: Pleura on Lungs posted by Anonymous Wombat on August 13, 2013 at 21:26:47:
: Dr. Evey,
: I've looked around at multiple sources, but I'm having a hard time finding an answer to a question I've been wondering about... Namely, I was wondering if the visceral pleura on the lungs, like the parietal pleura throughout the thorax which forms (with the visceral pleura) the pleural cavity, has both serous and fibrous layers. Given what we saw today in lab, I would imagine not, but I wanted to check and be sure before making any sort of assumption.
: If you could help make this clearer, I'd very much appreciate it!
: Thanks
Dear AW,
The visceral pleura does not have a fibrous layer. It is adhered directly to lung tissue. It is non-dissectable. The inner surface of the visceral pleura, like the inner surface of the parietal pleura, secretes serous fluid (a small amount under non-pathological conditions) into the pleural cavity. This fluid is said to reduce friction. It may also contribute to a capillary effect helping to "stick" the visceral pleura to the parietal pleura and, thus, make the lung follow thoracic movement. Negative pressure within the pleural cavity may also play a part. lae