What condition results from fluid collection between the visceral and parietal pleura?

The condition that results from fluid collection between the visceral and parietal pleura is pleural effusion. In this situation, excess fluid accumulates in the pleural space, which is the area between the two layers of pleura that cover the lungs and line the chest wall. This accumulation can prevent the lungs from fully expanding during breathing, leading to respiratory difficulty and discomfort.

Pleural effusion may result from various underlying causes, such as infections, heart failure, malignancies, or inflammatory conditions. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, chest pain, and cough.

The other conditions listed involve different pathophysiological processes: pneumothorax pertains to air in the pleural space; asthma primarily involves airway constriction due to inflammation and bronchospasm; and emphysema is characterized by the destruction of alveoli, leading to impaired gas exchange. Each of these conditions has distinct mechanisms and implications for treatment and management.