Hawaii Massage License Practice Exam

Which of the following is contained within the pleural cavity?

1. Heart

2. Brain

3. Lungs

4. Liver

The correct answer is: Lungs

The pleural cavity is a specific anatomical space that surrounds the lungs within the thoracic cavity. It is formed by two layers of pleura: the visceral pleura, which directly covers the lungs, and the parietal pleura, which lines the internal surface of the thoracic wall. The pleural cavity contains a small amount of pleural fluid, which serves to lubricate the surfaces of the pleura, allowing for smooth movement of the lungs during respiration. In this context, the lungs are the correct answer as they are the primary organs contained within the pleural cavity, allowing for normal respiratory function. The pleura plays a critical role in expanding and contracting the lungs as air is inhaled and exhaled. Understanding the anatomical relationships and functions of the pleura is fundamental in the study of respiratory physiology and thoracic anatomy.