Pleural Space
When you receive a chest X-ray or CT scan report, you may see the term “pleural space” mentioned. Radiologists may mention the pleural space when it’s normal or when an…
Author: A. Mendelson, MD
Aortic Knob
When you receive a chest X-ray report, you might come across the term “aortic knob.” This refers to the visible part of the aortic arch on a chest X-ray. While…
PICC Line vs Central Line
PICC line and central line are often mentioned in radiology reports. These medical devices are important in gaining central venous access for administering medications, nutrition and other uses. This article…
Picc Line vs Midline
When patients require long-term intravenous access, doctors often choose between two important options: Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICC lines) and Midlines. This article will discuss how these devices appear on…
Westermark Sign
Westermark sign is a finding that can indicate a life-threatening pulmonary embolism (PE) on a chest X-ray. While CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) is the gold standard for diagnosing PE, recognizing…
Pulmonary Infarction
Pulmonary infarction occurs when a segment of lung tissue dies due to a lack of blood supply. This can happen when a blood clot blocks the arteries that supply the…
Bochdalek Hernia
A Bochdalek hernia is a congenital condition where abdominal organs, such as the stomach or intestines, move into the chest through a defect in the diaphragm. This condition is usually…
Gastroesophageal Junction
The gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) is the area where the esophagus meets the stomach. It plays a role in digestion and prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. When…
Parapneumonic Effusion
Parapneumonic effusion often develops in patients with pneumonia. It refers to the accumulation of fluid in the pleural space due to an infection in the lungs. Radiologists play an important…
Pulmonary Infiltrate
Pulmonary infiltrates are common findings on chest imaging. Infiltrates are not specific for a diagnosis but can represent infections, inflammatory conditions, or even malignancy. Radiologists describe them as areas of increased…
Cavitary Lesion
A cavitary lesion appears as a hole or air-filled space within the lung tissue on imaging studies. These distinctive findings can signal various underlying conditions, ranging from infections to malignancies….
Pneumatocele
Pneumatoceles are air-filled cystic structures that commonly appear in the lungs following infection, trauma, or mechanical ventilation. These lesions are often incidental findings on chest imaging, meaning they are not…