Pleural reflection on left mid axillary line is in intercostal space:
**Core Concept:**
The pleura is a thin, serous membrane that lines the inner surface of the chest wall and covers the lungs. In adults, it consists of two layers: the parietal pleura and the visceral pleura. The pleural reflection is a fold of the parietal pleura that lies along the midaxillary line on the chest wall. The intercostal spaces are the spaces between the ribs, and each intercostal space is bordered by the costal margin, the internal intercostal membrane, and the parietal pleura. The left midaxillary line passes through the seventh intercostal space.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
The correct answer, C, states that the pleural reflection on the left midaxillary line is located in the seventh intercostal space. In the adult chest wall, the left midaxillary line passes through the seventh intercostal space, and the pleural reflection lies along this line. The pleural reflection is a fold of the parietal pleura that runs along the midaxillary line, creating a space between the pleura and the ribs. This space is the seventh intercostal space.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A: This incorrect answer suggests that the pleural reflection is located in the first intercostal space, which is incorrect because the left midaxillary line passes through the seventh intercostal space, not the first one.
B: This answer incorrectly states that the pleural reflection is located in the eighth intercostal space. As explained, the left midaxillary line passes through the seventh intercostal space, not the eighth.
D: This answer incorrectly identifies the pleural reflection as being in the fifth intercostal space. The correct answer shows that the left midaxillary line passes through the seventh intercostal space, not the fifth one.
**Clinical Pearl:**
The knowledge of the anatomy of the pleura and the left midaxillary line is essential for understanding various clinical procedures and conditions. For example, during a physical examination, a thorough assessment of the respiratory system involves palpation of the intercostal spaces to identify any abnormalities such as increased or decreased breath sounds. Understanding the location of the pleural reflection and intercostal spaces aids in interpreting the findings and making an accurate diagnosis.