Chest

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 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…

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….

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…

Pulmonary vascular congestion (PVC) is a common finding on chest imaging that indicates increased blood volume in the pulmonary circulation. It is often associated with heart failure, fluid overload, or…

Lung parenchyma is sometimes used by radiologists in reports and refers to the functional tissue of the lungs responsible for gas exchange. When reviewing chest imaging, radiologists assess lung parenchyma…

Subcutaneous emphysema is a finding on imaging tests that indicates air trapped within the soft tissues, typically beneath the skin. It can occur due to trauma, infections, or iatrogenic causes…

Lung nodules are a common finding on chest imaging, often discovered incidentally after chest X-rays or CT scans. These small, round spots in the lung tissue can raise concerns about…

Pulmonary contusion is a common finding in chest trauma.  This results from direct lung damage due to blunt force trauma, leading to hemorrhage and edema.  Recognizing pulmonary contusions on imaging…

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) means that cancer cells have invaded the pleural space.  This often leads to fluid accumulation around the lungs. This indicates advanced disease and negatively impacts patient…

Thoracic contusion is a bruising injury to the chest.  This can result from blunt force impacts, such as those sustained in car accidents, falls, or sports injuries. While the injury…

Flash pulmonary edema (FPE) is a sudden and severe form of pulmonary edema characterized by rapid fluid buildup in the lungs. This condition can be life-threatening, requiring immediate medical attention….