2 - CXR Interpretation

Question 1

silhouette sign

Answer 1

2 similar densities adjacent to each other cannot be differentiated

Question 2

A 41 yo presents with dyspnea for 3 weeks. On physical exam there are decreased breath sound, decreased tactile fremitus, and dullness to percussion on the right lower lung field. Chest x-ray show increased radiographic density and obliterated costophrenic angle. You suspect pleural effusion. What radiographic test would you order next to confirm the diagnosis?

Answer 2

decubitus film - pt laying on affected side

Question 3

In a patient with pneumothorax (air in the pleural space), the pneumothorax would cast an increase or decrease in radiographic density?

Answer 3

decreased

Question 4

Name 3 respiratory conditions associated with increased and 3 respiratory conditions associated with decreased radiographic density

Answer 4

inc: alveolar filling (PNA), atelectasis / volume loss, interstitial, masses
dec: air trapping, asthma, emphysema, foreign body, tumor, pneumothorax, cysts/bullae, loss of soft tissue