What physiological mechanism is impacted by compartmentalization caused by pleurae?

Compartmentalization caused by pleurae is primarily related to the spread of infection within the thoracic cavity. The pleurae are thin membranes surrounding the lungs and line the thoracic cavity, creating separate compartments. This anatomical arrangement can limit the movement of infectious agents between these compartments. For instance, if an infection occurs in one lung, the pleural space acts as a barrier to prevent the spread to the other lung or other surrounding structures, thereby potentially restricting the infection's reach and making it easier to treat the infected area.

The pleurae also help maintain pressure dynamics necessary for lung function, which somewhat influences other physiological processes, but their role is especially significant in containing infections. This compartmentalization helps localize infections rather than allowing them to diffuse freely throughout the thoracic cavity.