Radiology – Integrated Training Initiative (R-ITI) | Paediatrics | The Dense Hemithorax

The Dense Hemithorax
Session Overview
Description
This session looks at the evaluation of the opaque hemithorax in children.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Elicit the radiological signs of increased density of a hemithorax
• Synthesise a logical differential diagnosis
• Suggest further imaging to refine the diagnosis

Prerequisites
Before attempting this session, you should have knowledge of the:

• Anatomy of the thorax
• Appearances of the normal chest radiograph (CXR) in infants and children

In this session we will look at the imaging appearances of the opaque hemithorax. Plain radiographic findings will be emphasised (Fig 1 is a good example), and the use of supplementary imaging with ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging will be discussed when appropriate.

We will look at the following topics:

• Key anatomy
• Radiographic features and signs
• Differential diagnosis
• Further imaging