Radiology – Integrated Training Initiative (R-ITI) | Paediatrics | Unilateral Hyperlucent Hemithorax

Unilateral Hyperlucent Hemithorax
Session Overview
Description
This session looks at asymmetrical translucency of the hemithorax in a child.

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

• Recognise asymmetrical translucency of the hemithorax on a chest radiograph (CXR)
• Describe a strategy for evaluation of asymmetrical translucency
• Identify the abnormal lung and explain why it is abnormal
• List common causes of a hypertranslucent hemithorax in a child
• Suggest any appropriate further imaging

Prerequisites
Before commencing this session you should have:

• A basic knowledge of chest diseases in children
• Knowledge of the normal appearances of CXR in children
• A basic knowledge on interpretation of the paediatric CXR

The translucency and size of both hemithoraces in a CXR should be similar.

Asymmetry of the two hemithoraces may be due to inequality in:

• Aeration
• Vascularity

and may be associated with an enlarged or smaller lung.