19. Intro to Chest Radiology

Question 1

Why is PA preferred over AP?

Answer 1

In PA the heart is closer to the film and doesn’t undergo a magnifying effect

Question 2

What things related to the airways should be taken notice of on a CXR?

Answer 2

Central trachea?

Proximal bronchi

Question 3

How is it determined whether a patient was in a twisted position while the CXR was taken?

Answer 3

If the midpoints of the clavicles are equidistant from the spine

Question 4

What should be looked for in the lungs on a CXR?

Answer 4

Opacities
Well aerated
Collapse: do the lung markings extend the whole way out

Question 5

What should be looked for in relation to the pleura?

Answer 5

Check costophrenic angles for pleural effusion

Pleural masses/plaques

Question 6

What should be looked for in relation to circulation?

Answer 6

Heart size should be <50% of chest width
Outline of aorta
Right hilum should never be higher than the left
Hilar lymphadenopathy

Question 7

What should be looked for in relation to the diaphragm?

Answer 7

Clear outline?
Consolidation below diaphragm
Air bubbles: pneumoperitoneum

Question 8

What are the specific review areas on CXR?

Answer 8

Apices
Below diaphragm
Retrocardiac
Bones

Question 9

What can be seen on CXR in pulmonary oedema?

Answer 9

Vascular redistribution
Kerley B lines
Increased interstitial markings
Pleural effusion
Airspace opacification and 'Batwing' distribution

Question 10

What is the use of ultrasound in the mediastinum?

Answer 10

Assess pleural effusions and guide drainage

Echo