What type of fluid is produced by the pleura?

The fluid produced by the pleura is serous fluid. This fluid is essential for reducing friction between the pleurae, which are the membranes surrounding the lungs and lining the thoracic cavity. The serous fluid acts as a lubricant, allowing the lungs to glide smoothly during respiration as they expand and contract. This facilitates efficient breathing and reduces the risk of irritation or damage to the pleural surfaces.

Other types of fluid, such as aqueous humor, synovial fluid, and pus, serve different functions and are produced in distinct areas of the body, but they are not associated with the pleura. Aqueous humor is found in the anterior segment of the eye, synovial fluid lubricates joint cavities, and pus is a collection of inflammatory cells resulting from infection. Understanding the specific role of serous fluid helps clarify its importance in the respiratory system and pleural function.