Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

Anatomical Planes & Sections

Anatomy & Physiology

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

Anatomical Planes & Sections

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2:24 minutes

Problem 24

Textbook Question

Aiden has been suffering agonizing pain with each breath and has been informed by the physician that he has pleurisy.
Specifically, what membranes are involved in this condition?
What is their usual role in the body?
Explain why Aiden's condition is so painful.

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the membranes involved in pleurisy: Pleurisy affects the pleural membranes, which consist of the parietal pleura (lining the thoracic cavity) and the visceral pleura (covering the lungs). These membranes are part of the serous membrane system.

Explain the usual role of the pleural membranes: The pleural membranes produce pleural fluid, which acts as a lubricant to reduce friction between the lungs and the thoracic cavity during breathing. This allows smooth movement of the lungs as they expand and contract.

Describe the pathological changes in pleurisy: In pleurisy, the pleural membranes become inflamed, which can lead to a reduction in pleural fluid or an accumulation of excess fluid. The inflammation causes the membranes to rub against each other instead of gliding smoothly.

Explain why the condition is painful: The friction caused by the inflamed pleural membranes rubbing together during breathing stimulates pain receptors in the parietal pleura. This results in sharp, stabbing pain, especially during inhalation and exhalation.

Discuss the impact on breathing: The pain associated with pleurisy can make breathing difficult and shallow, as the patient may unconsciously limit their respiratory movements to avoid exacerbating the pain.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Pleura

The pleura are two thin layers of tissue that surround the lungs and line the chest cavity. The visceral pleura covers the lungs, while the parietal pleura lines the chest wall. In pleurisy, inflammation occurs in these membranes, leading to pain and discomfort during breathing.

Function of Pleural Membranes

The primary role of the pleural membranes is to facilitate smooth movement of the lungs during respiration. They produce pleural fluid, which acts as a lubricant, reducing friction between the lung surface and the chest wall. This allows for efficient expansion and contraction of the lungs while breathing.

Pain Mechanism in Pleurisy

Aiden's pain is primarily due to the inflammation of the pleura, which can irritate the nerve endings in the membranes. This irritation leads to sharp, stabbing pain, especially during deep breaths, coughing, or sneezing. The inflammation can also cause the pleural layers to rub against each other, exacerbating the pain.