Pleurites, also known as pleurisy, is a medical term referring to the inflammation of the pleura, which are the delicate membranes that line the outer surface of the lungs and the inner surface of the chest cavity. The pleura is composed of two layers, the visceral pleura, which covers the lungs, and the parietal pleura, which lines the chest wall.
When these membranes become inflamed, it leads to pleurites. This condition is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection, such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, or influenza. Other possible causes include autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, as well as certain medications or chest injuries.
The most common symptom of pleurites is a sharp, stabbing pain in the chest that worsens during deep breathing, coughing, or sneezing. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, fever, cough, and a dry or fluid-filled pleural effusion.
Diagnosis of pleurites is often made through physical examination, listening to the lungs with a stethoscope, and conducting imaging tests such as chest X-rays or CT scans. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and severity of the condition and may include antibiotics, antiviral medications, pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory drugs.
In summary, pleurites refers to the inflammation of the pleura, the membranes that line the lungs and chest cavity. It is characterized by chest pain and can be caused by infections, autoimmune disorders, or other factors, requiring appropriate treatment to manage the condition.
