Pleural Cavity and Lines of Reflection Quiz

The pleural cavity is bounded by the chest wall and the diaphragm below.

The pleural cavity extends from the root of the neck to the diaphragm.

The pleural cavity contains the lungs, and is divided into two parts - the parietal pleura covers the lung surface for minimum friction, and the visceral pleura extends into the depths of the interlobar fissures.

The pleural cavity produces pleural fluid which is drained by the visceral pleura and the lymphatics.

The pleural lines of reflection are located on the right and left sides of the chest, just below the sternoclavicular articulation and in line with the angle of Louis.

The right pleural line of reflection goes downward and inward to the level of the 4th intercostal space, then turns laterally to reach the sternal line. It then descends vertically downward and outward to the level of the 6th costal cartilage at the parasternal line.

The left pleural line of reflection starts at the 4th intercostal space and turns laterally to reach the sternal line. It then descends vertically downward and outward to the level of the 6th costal cartilage at the parasternal line.

The two pleural lines of reflection then go posteriorly to reach a point corresponding to the junction of the 12th (sometimes 11th) rib with the vertebral column. From here, they arch upward and meet the sterno-clavicular junction after making an ascent of 1 to 1 1/2 inches.