Keuhkokuviin

Keuhkokuviin is a Finnish term used in medical contexts to refer to radiographic images of the lungs, most commonly chest radiographs (lung X-rays). The term encompasses standard imaging obtained to visualize the lungs and surrounding thoracic structures.

The primary purpose of keuhkokuviin is to help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting the lungs and pleural space. Common indications include suspected pneumonia, tuberculosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, pleural effusion, pneumothorax, and preoperative assessment. It can also be used to evaluate acute symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath when other findings are unclear.

The imaging procedure is typically quick and noninvasive. Most chest radiographs are performed with the patient standing or sitting, using one or more views, commonly a posteroanterior (or AP) view and a lateral view. In some settings, additional oblique or specialized views may be used. Radiation exposure in chest X-rays is relatively low, and protective measures are taken to minimize exposure to other parts of the body.

Interpretation is usually performed by a radiologist or trained clinician who assesses lung markings, heart size, mediastinal contours, and the presence of abnormalities such as infiltrates, nodules, masses, effusions, or pneumothorax. While keuhkokuviin provides valuable information, it has limitations as a two-dimensional projection and may miss small lesions that could be detected by computed tomography.