PLEURA PHRENICA Meaning and
Definition
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The term "pleura phrenica" refers to the part of the pleura that is in contact with the diaphragm. The pleura is a thin, serous membrane that lines the inside of the chest cavity and covers the lungs. It consists of two layers, the parietal pleura and the visceral pleura, that are separated by a small space called the pleural cavity. The pleura phrenica specifically pertains to the portion of the parietal pleura that is in contact with the diaphragm, which is a dome-shaped muscle located at the base of the thoracic cavity, separating it from the abdominal cavity.
The pleura phrenica plays a crucial role in assisting the movement and functioning of the diaphragm during respiration. When a person breathes in, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, causing the pleura phrenica to stretch along with it. This stretching allows the lungs to expand and fill with air, facilitating inhalation. Conversely, during exhalation, when the diaphragm relaxes and moves upwards, the pleura phrenica returns to its original position, enabling the lungs to expel air.
Furthermore, the pleura phrenica also contributes to the stabilization and positioning of the diaphragm within the chest cavity. It helps maintain the integrity of the diaphragm-dome shape and ensures proper alignment with the lungs. This synchronization is essential for efficient respiratory function, as any disruption or alteration in the pleura phrenica's structure or mobility can affect the movements of the diaphragm and subsequently impede breathing.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PLEURA PHRENICA
Etymology of PLEURA PHRENICA
The word "pleura phrenica" has its etymology rooted in ancient Greek.
- "Pleura" (πλευρά) in Greek means "side" or "rib". In anatomy, it specifically refers to the membrane that covers the lungs and lines the chest cavity.
- "Phrenica" (φρενικός) in Greek means "diaphragmatic" or "pertaining to the diaphragm". The diaphragm is a muscle that plays a crucial role in the respiratory process.
The combination of these two terms, "pleura phrenica", is used to refer to the area where the parietal pleura (the pleural membrane that lines the chest) comes into contact with the diaphragm.
