Presentation
Motor bike accident
Patient Data
Age: 30
Gender: Male
From the case:
Differences in PA versus AP projection on a chest radiograph
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The superior mediastinum appears widened due to AP magnification.
The heart appears enlarged - a combination of AP magnification and underinflation
There appears to be a bilateral interstitial infiltrate/airways thickening - probably also due to underinflation.
From the case:
Differences in PA versus AP projection on a chest radiograph
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Same patient, repeat CXR the next day (PA projection this time) - normal inferring that the “abnormalities” seen the previous day were likely spurious
Case Discussion
Projection and degree on inspiration are important to note when interpreting chest x-rays.