Chest X-Ray Interpretation
The chest x-ray is a common diagnostic tool that is used to visualise the airways, lungs, heart, vessels and bones of the thorax.
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Patient Details
Name, date of birth
Correct Film
Correct date and time, modality
Side Marker
Identifying R vs. L
Assess Quality of Film
Assess quality of film
Assess Patient Position
Erect / supine
Assess Projection
AP / PA / lateral
Symmetry
Asymmetry may indicate a rotated film
Deformities
Scoliosis, extra cervical rib
Bony Lesions
Fractures, lytic lesions, sclerotic lesions
Pneumonia
Interstitial / Pulmonary Oedema
Batwing opacification, Kerley B lines, upper lobe diversion
Atelectasis
Pneumothorax
Pleural Effusion
Loss of costophrenic angle, basal shadowing
Interstitial Lung Disease
Emphysema
Inflation
~9 posterior ribs should be seen
Under / overinflation
Consolidation
Opacification obscuring pulmonary vessels without volume loss
Loss of Lung Markings
Interstitial Changes
Linear opacities, Kerley lines
Masses / Nodules
Size, number, density, cavitation
Pleural Changes
Plaques