Definition

• Pleural space: the potential space between the lung and chest wall that normally contains a very thin layer of fluid
• Pleural effusion: an excess quantity of fluid in the pleural space
  • Normally, there is only between 10 and 25 mL of fluid between the visceral and parietal pleurae.
  • In disease states, up to 3 L of pleural fluid can accumulate.
• Empyema: a grossly purulent effusion

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