Presentation
Fever and cough
Patient Data
Age: 25 years
Gender: Male
From the case:
Retrocardiac pneumonia
{"current_user":null,"step_through_annotations":true,"access":{"can_edit":false,"can_download":true,"can_toggle_annotations":true,"can_feature":false,"can_examine_pipeline_reports":false,"can_pin":false},"extraPropsURL":"/studies/133786/annotated_viewer_json?lang=us"}
The left hemidiaphragm is not visualized in keeping with retrocardiac (left lower lobe) consolidation. The left heart border is visualized normally. The right lung appears clear.
From the case:
Retrocardiac pneumonia
{"current_user":null,"step_through_annotations":true,"access":{"can_edit":false,"can_download":true,"can_toggle_annotations":true,"can_feature":false,"can_examine_pipeline_reports":false,"can_pin":false},"extraPropsURL":"/studies/134049/annotated_viewer_json?lang=us"}
Dense consolidation of the left lower lobe, with an effusion at the left apex.
The sagittal view shows how the consolidation abuts the posterior aspect of the heart and diaphragm, causing the silhouette sign.
Case Discussion
This radiograph nicely illustrates the silhouette sign. The left hemidiaphragm is not visualized, whereas the left heart border is normal - this localizes the pathology to the left lower lobe.
At first glance, retrocardiac consolidation can be difficult to visualize and therefore it is an important review area.
Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.