Fig. 65.1
Normal pediatric chest X-ray
Questions
- 1.
How do pediatric chest X-rays differ from those of an adult?
- 2.
Consider this normal chest X-ray of an infant (Fig. 65.1). Is there a system for interpreting the image?
- 3.
What points do you look for?
- 4.
What is specific to each age group?
- 5.
What should you not expect to see on an infant chest X-ray?
- 6.
Do not forget?
Answers
- 1.
Pediatric chest X-Ray differ from those of adults because:
- (a)
They are difficult to obtain as cooperation is limited [1].
- (b)
Chest X-rays change with age.
- (c)
Children present with different conditions.
- (d)
There are specific areas to review when interpreting a pediatric chest X-ray.
- (f)
The thymus can cause confusion.
- (a)
- 2.
There are many ways of reading a CXR [2]. Adopt a method that suits you and stick to it. Here is an example:
- (a)
Check ID and quality
- (b)
Bone structure
- (c)
Tracheobronchial tree and mediastinum
- (d)
Heart silhouette
- (e)
Contours of thorax
- (f)
Lung fields
- (g)
Abdomen
- (h)
Soft tissues
- (i)
Lines, tubes, and artefacts
- (a)
- 3.
Points to look for:
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- (a)
Check ID and quality:
Age will guide you in your interpretation.
Quality of the picture: rotation, inspiration, and exposure [2]. Over- or underexposed films will impair your judgement on parenchymal density and vascularity.
Position: AP, PA, and supine. Particularly important in neonates where lung mechanics are different such as the angle of the ribs. This can be affected by poor positioning of the child.Related posts:
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- (a)
