Final answer:
A pleural effusion is the correct term for the escape of fluid from the pleural space, which can lead to difficulty breathing due to lung compression. The correct answer to the escape of fluid from the pleural space is c) Pleural effusion.
Step-by-step explanation:
This condition occurs when excess fluid builds up in the space between the layers of the pleura outside the lungs. Pleural effusion occurs when excess fluid collects in the pleural space, which is the space between the layers of tissue (visceral and parietal pleurae) that surround the lungs. This can be caused by various conditions, such as infections, congestive heart failure, or lung cancer.
The pleural space, also known as the intrapleural space, contains a small amount of fluid that acts as a lubricant between the visceral and parietal pleurae, which are the two layers of tissue surrounding the lungs. However, when too much fluid accumulates, it can compress the lungs and cause difficulty breathing. This is different from a pneumothorax where air enters the pleural space, a hemothorax where blood leaks into the space, or empyema wherein there is an infection with pus in the pleural space.