Key Point
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The chest radiograph is contributory in the workup of many clinical situations. This chapter gives a suggested list of useful applications of the chest radiograph and a reiteration of what information is sought on the chest radiograph in particular clinical contexts.
Chest Pain
In the workup of a chest pain syndrome, the chest radiograph is useful, if not mandatory, to evaluate the following:
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Pleural effusions (supports pleural disease [i.e., inflammation] or congestive heart failure)
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Heart size (indicates cardiac disease but does not distinguish pericardial from myocardial, valvular, or other types)
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Radiographic signs of congestive heart failure
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Aortic size and contour; these may suggest aortic disease
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Skeletal disease
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Esophageal hernia (hiatal hernia)
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Pneumonia
Congestive Heart Failure
In the workup of a patient with congestive heart failure, the chest radiograph is useful, if not mandatory, to evaluate the following:
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Heart size (which indirectly suggests left ventricular dysfunction)
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Radiographic signs and severity of congestive heart failure
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Valve calcification
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Valve prosthesis type and position
Congestive Heart Failure
In the workup of a patient with congestive heart failure, the chest radiograph is useful, if not mandatory, to evaluate the following:
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Heart size (which indirectly suggests left ventricular dysfunction)
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Radiographic signs and severity of congestive heart failure
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Valve calcification
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Valve prosthesis type and position
Related posts:
Radiographic Findings by Diagnosis: Cardiomyopathies
Radiographic Findings by Diagnosis: Coronary Artery Disease–Complications of Infarction
Radiographic Findings by Diagnosis: Pericardial and Pleural Diseases
Central Venous and Pulmonary Artery Catheters
Tubes and Drains
Pacemakers and Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators
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