Pulmonary edema chest x ray
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
The chest x-ray is the diagnostic modality of choice in the evaluation of the patient with suspected pulmonary edema. Chest x-ray findings include increased fluid in the alveolar walls, the presence of Kerley B lines, increased vascular markings, pleural effusions.
Cardiogenic Versus Noncardiogenic Pulmonary Edema
Cardiogenic pulmonary edema can be distinguished from noncardiogenic pulmonary edema by the presence of redistribution of blood flow to the upper lobes (increased blood flow to the higher parts of the lung). In contrast, patchy alveolar infiltrates with air bronchograms are more indicative of noncardiogenic edema.
Correlation of Chest X-Ray Findings with Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure
Peribronchial Cuffing
Peribronchial cuffing is an abnormality on a chest x-ray whereby the usually thin bronchial walls are thickened and take on a doughnut-like appearance.