MCAT Biology Question 80: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 80

5. A patient presents to the emergency room with a stab wound to the left side of the chest. On a chest x-ray, blood is noted to be collecting in the chest cavity, causing collapse of both lobes of the left lung. The blood is most likely located between:

  • A. the parietal pleura and the chest wall.
  • B. the parietal pleura and the visceral pleura.
  • C. the visceral pleura and the lung.
  • D. the alveolar walls and the lung surface.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

The intrapleural space, bounded by the parietal and visceral pleurae, is a potential space. As such, it is normally collapsed and contains a small amount of fluid. However, introduction of fluid or air into the intrapleural space can fill the space, causing collapse of the lung. The other options listed are too firmly apposed to permit blood to collect in these spaces.

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