Pulmonary Edema

PA


This chest X ray shows pulmonary edema and a normal heart size.

In this PA view, it is demonstrated by pulmonary edema seen as a diffuse increase in the pulmonary vascular markings throughout, with vascular shadows that can be traced to the periphery. Note also the marked increase in the pulmonary venous markings in the upper lung fields, reflecting a high pulmonary venous pressure, as well as the increased perihilar shadows from extravasated fluid. These shadows produce the classic "butterfly wing" or "bat wing" appearance of acute pulmonary edema.

The normal heart size is evidenced by the normal cardiothoracic ratio.

Note the arrows pointing out chest electrodes.