What occurs when the parietal pleura is irritated?

• A. Localized pain may be felt
• B. Gas exchange is compromised
• C. Pleural effusion develops
• D. The visceral pleura compensates

Answer: (A)

When the parietal pleura is irritated, it typically leads to localized pain due to its rich innervation. The parietal pleura is sensitive to pain, temperature, and touch because it is supplied by the intercostal and phrenic nerves. Therefore, when it becomes inflamed or irritated, individuals often experience sharp or localized pain in the corresponding thoracic area, especially with movements such as breathing, coughing, or sneezing.

This localized pain can be effectively described as pleuritic pain, which specifically arises from inflammation of the pleura surrounding the lungs. The pain is often described as sharp and worsening with inspiration or other movements that stretch the pleura.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the physiological response associated with irritation of the parietal pleura. Gas exchange typically relates to issues with lung tissue or alveoli rather than the pleura itself. Although pleural effusion can occur due to various causes, it is not a direct outcome of parietal pleura irritation. Additionally, the visceral pleura cannot compensate for irritation in the parietal pleura, as they serve different functions and have different nerve innervation characteristics. Overall, the best answer regarding the effect of parietal ple