Interpretation of chest X-rays Part 1

X-ray : basic interpretation

X rays are one of the most frequently requested investigations and their interpretation is one of the fundamental skills of every doctor.

In this blog series, we look into the basic interpretation of chest x-ray. If you have no or little knowledge regarding the interpretation of x rays then it will give you a solid foundation upon which you can build your further knowledge.

figure. x-ray source, detector, patient in between

less dense like air=black,

more dense like bones=white,

moderate dense like water=grey

parts of the film -

where x ray struck: black

where x rays are blocked/ no x ray struck: white

where some amount of x ray struck: shade of grey

spectrum: radiolucent to radiopaque ( air, fluid, and soft tissue, bone, metal)

there are 3 types of views for x ray:

· anteroposterior or AP view is used in bed-ridden patients who are unable to stand. AP view magnifies the size of the heart and mediastinum.

· Posteroanterior or PA view is the preferred view. Patients stand in front of the plate and x rays are passed from the back of the patient.

· Lateral view is used in combination with PA view to look at areas obscured by the heart or diaphragm.

Ideal : end of inspiration, tube 180 cm away

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