by Tim Milligan | Nov 12, 2015 | Airspace
In a normal chest x-ray, the diaphragm and mediastinal structures are visible because of the difference in radiodensity between lung and these structures (i.e. there is an “interface” between the tissues). The “silhouette” sign refers to loss...
by Tim Milligan | Nov 12, 2015 | Airspace
Image A: The left hemidiaphragm is invisible due to a consolidation in the left lower lobe. Image B: The right hemidiaphragm is poorly seen due to consolidation in the right lower lobe. An interface is not visible when two areas of similar radiodensity touch....
by Tim Milligan | Nov 12, 2015 | Airspace
The plain AP films of this patient exemplify pulmonary edema. One can easily appreciate the fluffy white opacities throughout the lung field. Other signs such as vascular redistribution, peri-bronchial cuffing, and pleural effusion are difficult to appreciate on this...
by Tim Milligan | Nov 12, 2015 | Airspace
This young patient has emphysema as a result of alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency. Hyperinflation is noted as a generalized increase in radiolucency due to increased aeration and spread of vasculature, an increased AP chest diameter and retrosternal airspace on the...
by Tim Milligan | Nov 12, 2015 | Airspace
Emphysema (PA Film) (left image) Hyperinflation, darkened lung fields, and decreased vascular markings. Emphysema (Lateral Film) (right image) Large retrosternal airspace, increased AP diametre (barrel chest), flattened hemi-diaphragms.
by Tim Milligan | Nov 12, 2015 | Airspace
The following is a useful mnemonic for the differential diagnosis of a cavitating lung lesion: Cancer Autoimmune Vascular Infection (e.g. Tuberculosis) Trauma Youth (congenital)
