Final answer:
Disruption in surface tension between the visceral and parietal pleurae alters pleural cavity pressure dynamics, potentially leading to pleurisy or pneumothorax, which can cause lung collapse and pain upon respiration.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the surface tension between the visceral and parietal pleurae is disrupted, the normal pressure dynamics within the pleural cavity are altered. The pleural fluid in the intrapleural space normally reduces friction and allows the pleurae to glide smoothly over each other during respiration. This fluid, along with the negative intrapleural pressure, keeps the lungs expanded within the thoracic cavity.
A disruption in surface tension could lead to pleurisy or a pneumothorax, where the lung may collapse due to the loss of negative pressure. Pleurisy involves inflammation that increases the pressure within the thoracic cavity, reducing lung volume and causing pain. A pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space and disrupts the vacuum keeping the lung expanded, often leading to a collapse of the affected lung.