What type of abnormality is demonstrated on the chest radiograph?
Multiple tiny nodules scattered throughout all zones with no zonal predilection. They are random, tiny and innumerable.
What is the term that is used to describe such nodules?
These are classic "miliary nodules".
What does the term "miliary" relate to?
"Miliary" describes an appearances similar to the millet seed (the grain from the hay-like millet grass). They are tiny seeds that measure approximately 2 mm. On a chest radiograph, a miliary appearance describes multiple, diffuse, discrete nodules that measure approximately 2 mm.
Chest x-ray demonstrates very widespread randomly distributed innumerable tiny nodules in both lungs. There is no consolidation or pleural fluid and no mediastinal or hilar nodal enlargement.