'''Mediastinal Pleura''' is a part of the [[pleura]], the thin serous membrane around the lungs, which is involved in the division and compartmentalization of the thoracic cavity. The mediastinal pleura specifically lines the [[mediastinum]], the central compartment of the thoracic cavity that contains the heart, esophagus, trachea, phrenic and cardiac nerves, thoracic duct, thymus, and lymph nodes of the central chest.
#REDIRECT [[Pleura]]
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== Anatomy ==
The mediastinal pleura is a portion of the parietal pleura, which lines the thoracic cavity. It extends from the [[sternum]] in the front of the chest to the [[vertebral column]] at the back, and from the neck to the diaphragm. It is continuous with the [[visceral pleura]], which covers the lungs, at the [[hilum]] of the lung.
== Function ==
The primary function of the mediastinal pleura, like the rest of the pleura, is to aid in the mechanics of breathing. The pleura produces pleural fluid that lubricates the pleural surfaces, allowing the lungs to expand and contract smoothly within the thoracic cavity during respiration.
== Clinical significance ==
Diseases of the pleura, such as [[pleurisy]], [[pleural effusion]], and [[mesothelioma]], can affect the mediastinal pleura. Symptoms of these conditions can include chest pain, cough, and shortness of breath. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as chest X-ray or CT scan, and may also include pleural fluid analysis or biopsy.
