What is the name of the pleura that lines the chest wall?

• A. Visceral pleura
• B. Parietal pleura
• C. Pericardial pleura
• D. Epicardial pleura

Answer: (B)

The pleura that lines the chest wall is known as the parietal pleura. This thin membrane serves as a protective layer that covers the thoracic cavity and is attached to the chest wall and the diaphragm. It plays a crucial role in the mechanics of breathing by forming a sealed compartment that allows for the expansion and contraction of the lungs. During inhalation, the parietal pleura helps create a negative pressure environment, facilitating the movement of air into the lungs.

In contrast, the visceral pleura covers the lungs themselves, directly adhering to the lung surface. The pericardial pleura refers to the membrane that surrounds the heart, while the epicardial pleura relates to the outermost layer of the heart wall itself. Understanding the distinctions between these types of pleura is essential for grasping their specific anatomical and physiological roles in the thoracic cavity.