9.8k views
5 votes
A radioluscent (air density) space between the lung and the chest wall indicates what?

User Cumhur
by
6.6k points

2 Answers

6 votes

Final answer:

A radiolucent space between the lung and chest wall indicates a pneumothorax, or collapsed lung, which can be diagnosed with a chest radiograph and assessed with spirometry.

Step-by-step explanation:

A radiolucent (air density) space between the lung and the chest wall typically indicates the presence of a pneumothorax, which is a collapsed lung. This condition occurs when air enters the intrapleural space, the space between the visceral and parietal pleura of the lungs. If the pleura are inflamed due to conditions like pleurisy, pressure within the thoracic cavity increases, and the volume of the lung may reduce, contributing to the condition. Detection is often achieved through imaging techniques such as a chest radiograph, and the functionality of the lung can be assessed using diagnostic tests like spirometry.

User Alepuzio
by
7.1k points
1 vote

Answer:

Here it is. radiolucent

Step-by-step explanation:

A radiolucent (air density) space between the lung and the chest wall on a medical imaging study, such as a chest X-ray or CT scan, typically indicates the presence of a pneumothorax. A pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space, the space between the lung and the chest wall. This can lead to the collapse of the lung.

In a normal situation, the pleural space is a potential space filled with a small amount of lubricating fluid, allowing the lung to move smoothly within the chest cavity during breathing. When air enters this space, it disrupts the balance between the pressure inside and outside the lung, causing the lung to collapse partially or completely.

On imaging, a pneumothorax appears as a dark, radiolucent space between the lung and the chest wall, as air does not absorb X-rays and appears transparent. The affected lung may appear smaller than usual, and there may be a visible line at the edge of the collapsed lung, representing the border between the collapsed and normally aerated portions. Pneumothorax can have various causes, including trauma, underlying lung disease, or it may occur spontaneously without an apparent cause. Treatment often involves removing the air from the pleural space and allowing the lung to re-expand.

User Babaliaris
by
7.6k points