Radiology reports often use terms like atelectasis and consolidation to describe findings in the lungs. These are imaging patterns that look similar but represent different processes. Atelectasis refers to lung…
A radiology report of the chest can mention “mediastinal lymph nodes of borderline size.” The mediastinum is the central part of the chest, located between the lungs, that contains the…
Traction bronchiectasis on a chest CT report refers to airways (bronchi or bronchioles) that are pulled open or stretched because of nearby scarring or fibrosis (lung tissue damage). This is…
Pleural plaques are described on radiology reports of the chest. They are usually benign and do not directly cause serious illness. They represent a form of scarring on the lining…
Pleural thickening is a term found on radiology reports of the chest. The pleura are thin layers of tissue that line the lungs and the inside of the chest wall….
When you read a chest CT or X-ray report, you may see the term “subpleural reticulation.” In simple terms, it describes a certain type of pattern that radiologists see in…
A radiology report may describe a “trace pleural effusion.” In simple terms, this means a very small amount of fluid is seen between the lung and the chest wall, or…
The right subclavian artery is a major blood vessel that plays an important role in supplying blood to your right arm, shoulder, and parts of your brain. This artery can…
When your doctor orders a CT scan, or other imaging study, you might see “left subclavian artery” mentioned in the radiology report. This important blood vessel plays an important role…
Paratracheal lymph nodes are located next to the trachea in your chest. These lymph nodes are evaluated by radiologists on imaging studies like CT scans of the chest. Understanding what…
A right aortic arch is a congenital anatomical variation where the body’s main artery curves to the right side of the chest instead of the normal left side. This finding…
The bronchial artery is a blood vessel that delivers oxygen-rich blood to your bronchi and lungs. Unlike pulmonary arteries that carry blood for gas exchange, bronchial arteries supply the actual…