What is the correct term for inflammation of the lining of the lung?

Pleurisy is the correct term for inflammation of the lining of the lung, which is referred to as the pleura. The pleura consists of two layers: the visceral pleura that covers the lungs and the parietal pleura that lines the chest wall. When either of these layers becomes inflamed, it can lead to chest pain, especially during breathing, coughing, or sneezing.

Pneumonitis refers specifically to inflammation of lung tissue itself, often due to infections or chemical irritants, which is distinct from the pleura. Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs; it does not refer to the pleura. Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, leading to lung tissue scarring but is not a term related to inflammation of the pleura.