Which characteristic findings are expected on a Chest X-ray of a patient with a Pulmonary Embolism?

Which characteristic findings are expected on a Chest X-ray of a patient with a Pulmonary Embolism?

• A. Normal lung structure
• B. Wedge-shaped infiltrate and increased density
• C. Fluid in the pleural space
• D. Consolidation only

Answer: (B)

In cases of pulmonary embolism, a wedge-shaped infiltrate can appear on a chest X-ray, known as a "Westermark sign," indicating an area of lung tissue that is not receiving adequate blood flow due to the blocked pulmonary artery. This can lead to a characteristic pattern that suggests the presence of embolic occlusion. Additionally, the affected lung segment may exhibit increased density due to the lack of perfusion, contrasting with the surrounding normal lung that continues to receive blood flow. This sign is particularly important for clinicians, as it aids in the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism and helps differentiate it from other pulmonary conditions. Other findings associated with pulmonary embolism, such as pleural effusion or consolidations, may occur but are not as definitive or characteristic on an X-ray for this specific condition. Therefore, the wedge-shaped infiltrate and increased density are the hallmark radiographic features expected in a pulmonary embolism scenario.

In cases of pulmonary embolism, a wedge-shaped infiltrate can appear on a chest X-ray, known as a "Westermark sign," indicating an area of lung tissue that is not receiving adequate blood flow due to the blocked pulmonary artery. This can lead to a characteristic pattern that suggests the presence of embolic occlusion. Additionally, the affected lung segment may exhibit increased density due to the lack of perfusion, contrasting with the surrounding normal lung that continues to receive blood flow. This sign is particularly important for clinicians, as it aids in the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism and helps differentiate it from other pulmonary conditions.

Other findings associated with pulmonary embolism, such as pleural effusion or consolidations, may occur but are not as definitive or characteristic on an X-ray for this specific condition. Therefore, the wedge-shaped infiltrate and increased density are the hallmark radiographic features expected in a pulmonary embolism scenario.