Name a respiratory structure that is involved in respiratory diseases.

The pleura is a vital structure in the respiratory system, composed of two layers that envelop the lungs—the visceral pleura, which is attached to the lungs, and the parietal pleura, which lines the chest wall. The pleura produces pleural fluid, which lubricates the pleural cavity, allowing for smooth expansion and contraction of the lungs during respiration.

Respiratory diseases can significantly affect the pleura. For instance, conditions such as pleuritis (inflammation of the pleura) can result from infections, resulting in sharp chest pain during breathing. Other diseases like pleural effusion (accumulation of fluid in the pleural space) can arise from pneumonia, heart failure, or malignancies, indicating that the pleural membranes can be directly involved in various respiratory disorders. By understanding the role of the pleura, one can gain insights into how its dysfunction leads to respiratory complications.