What is abnormal chest xray?

If the X-ray images show abnormalities, this means that there is something unusual on the image of the chest. This is usually indicative of a problem, and could be immediately obvious, such as a broken or fractured rib, or could simply be a shadow that needs further investigation.

How can you tell the difference between AP and PA view?

Key points

• Posterior-Anterior (PA) is the standard projection.
• PA projection is not always possible.
• Both PA and AP views are viewed as if looking at the patient from the front.
• PA views are of higher quality and more accurately assess heart size than AP images.

What does white out on chest xray mean?

A ‘complete white out’ of the hemithorax describes total opacification of one side of the thoracic cavity. The main causes are: – massive pleural effusion. – pneumonectomy. – total collapse.

How do I know if my chest xray is PA or AP?

Radiographers will often label a chest X-ray as either PA or AP. If the image is not labelled, it is usually fair to assume it is a standard PA view. If you are not sure then look at the medial edges of each scapula.

Why is collapsed lung White?

In the case of a large pleural effusion, the mediastinum may be pushed away from the midline by the large volume of fluid. If you see an area of whiteness at the base of a lung then the possible causes are a pleural effusion, a raised hemidiaphragm and an area of consolidation or collapse.

What does a white shadow on the lung mean?

Pneumonia (unusual white or hazy shadow on the normally dark lungs on the X-ray can indicate this) Abscesses. Pulmonary oedema (fluid build-up in the lungs) Lung cancer and other masses in the lungs. Cavities in the lungs or cavitary lesions (caused by diseases like tuberculosis and sarcoidosis)

What is PA view in chest xray?

The posteroanterior (PA) chest view examines the lungs, bony thoracic cavity, mediastinum and great vessels.

What is the most common chest xray view?

The most common views are posteroanterior, anteroposterior, and lateral. In a posteroanterior (PA) view, the x-ray source is positioned so that the x-ray beam enters through the posterior (back) aspect of the chest and exits out of the anterior (front) aspect, where the beam is detected.

How do you get a chest X ray?

An X-ray technician takes the X-rays. Usually, two are taken: one from the back of the chest if the child is old enough to stand up for the X-ray, and one from the side. In younger children a picture from the front of the chest is taken as well as from the side. In some cases, special views of the chest are taken.

What is a normal chest X ray?

Normal Chest X-Rays. Hollow structures containing mostly air, such the lungs, normally appear dark. In a normal chest X-ray, the chest cavity is outlined on each side by the white bony structures that represent the ribs of the chest wall. On the top portion of the chest is the neck and the collar bones (clavicles).

What are the reasons for a chest X ray?

A chest X-ray is used to help find the cause of symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain. It can detect signs of asthma, pneumonia, a collapsed lung, heart problems (such as an enlarged heart), and broken ribs or lung damage after an injury.

How do you read a chest X ray?

How to Read a Chest X-ray – A Step By Step Approach. measure the distance from the medial end of each clavicle to the spinous process of the vertebra at the same level, which should be equal Check adequacy of inspiration Nine pairs of ribs should be seen posteriorly in order to consider a chest x-ray adequate in terms of inspiration.