Anatomy of the pleura

Abstract

The pleura is a monolayer of mesothelial cells covering the lung and inner surface of the chest cavity, creating the pleural space. The mesothelial cells rest on a matrix of collagen, elastic fibers, blood vessels, and lymphatics, which allow the lung and chest to expand and contract, protected from friction by the pleural fluid and properties of the mesothelial cells. With a rich blood supply and lymphatic system just deep to the mesothelial layer, the pleura is a dynamic layer protecting the lung and pleural cavity from infection while transmitting the forces of respiration without damage to the underlying lung parenchyma.