Superior Vena Cava Syndrome
Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) occurs when blood flow through the superior vena cava—the large vein carrying blood from the upper body to the heart—becomes obstructed. This obstruction leads to…
Chest
Bullae
The term “bullae” can be used in radiology reports of the chest. These air-filled spaces in the lungs, larger than one centimeter in diameter. Bullae appear as dark, thin-walled areas…
Basilar Meaning in Lung
When you receive a radiology report after a chest scan, you might see terms referencing “basilar” findings in your lungs. Understanding this terminology can help you have more informed discussions…
Interstitial Meaning
The term interstitial can appear in chest X-ray and CT scans reports. Interstitial abnormalities occur between the air spaces of the lung where carbon dioxide and oxygen exchange occurs. This…
Pulmonary Hemorrhage
Pulmonary hemorrhage refers to bleeding into the lungs’ air spaces. This serious condition can range from mild to life-threatening, depending on its cause and severity. This article will discus what…
Biapical Pleuroparenchymal Scarring
Biapical pleuroparenchymal scarring is a term that often appears on chest imaging reports, particularly chest X-rays and CT scans. When patients receive their radiology results with this finding, it can…
Lingula
The lingula is a small tongue-like projection of the left lung that can be mentioned on radiology reports. It is most commonly described on chest X-rays and CT scans. This…
Innominate Vein
The innominate vein, also known as the brachiocephalic vein, is an important blood vessel in the upper chest that can sometimes be mentioned in radiology reports. This article explains what…
Boerhaave Syndrome
Boerhaave syndrome is a life-threatening medical condition that occurs when the esophagus ruptures usually from vomiting or straining. This condition requires immediate medical attention, as delays in diagnosis and treatment…
Mediastinitis
Mediastinitis is a serious inflammatory condition affecting the mediastinum, the area in the middle of the chest between the lungs. This space contains vital structures including the heart, major blood…
Azygos Vein
The azygos vein is a blood vessel that can sometimes be mentioned on chest imaging reports. This vein plays an important role in your body’s circulation system. This article will…
Sternotomy
A sternotomy is a surgical procedure where the breastbone (sternum) is cut open to provide access to the heart and other structures in the chest. This procedure is commonly performed…