What three cavities are in the Thoracic Cavity?

• A. Abdominal, Pelvic, and Thoracic
• B. Cranial, Spinal, and Posterior
• C. Pleural, Pericardial, and Abdominal
• D. Mediastinum, Pleural, and Pericardial

Answer: (D)

The thoracic cavity is divided into spaces that host the lungs and heart and their coverings. The two pleural cavities flank the lungs, while the central compartment called the mediastinum houses many structures, including the heart. Within that mediastinal region is the pericardial cavity, which surrounds the heart. So the three cavities in the thoracic cavity are a mediastinal cavity, the pleural cavities, and the pericardial cavity. Picture the rib cage with two pleural sacs around the lungs and a central mediastinal space containing the heart, with a pericardial sac around it.