Question

multiple choice question
on chest x - ray, atelectasis is most reliably identified by:
please select your answer...
a air bronchograms within consolidation
b volume loss and displacement of fissures
c cavitation
d pleural calcification

Explanation:

Atelectasis refers to the collapse or incomplete expansion of a lung. On chest X - ray, volume loss (such as a decrease in the size of the affected lung area) and displacement of fissures (the normal boundaries between lung lobes) are key signs. Air bronchograms (seen in consolidation, like in pneumonia) are not specific to atelectasis. Cavitation (a cavity within lung tissue) is more associated with conditions like abscess or certain types of lung infections. Pleural calcification is related to previous pleural diseases (e.g., old tuberculosis affecting the pleura) and not a sign of atelectasis.

Answer:

B. Volume loss and displacement of fissures