Mellkasröntgen

Mellkasröntgen, or chest X-ray, is a radiographic examination of the thorax used to visualize the lungs, heart, mediastinum, pleura and surrounding bony structures. It is one of the most common imaging tests and is usually completed with the patient standing or sitting upright, though portable AP views are used in some hospital settings.

Indications include assessment of cough, fever, chest pain, trauma, shortness of breath, or monitoring of known diseases such as pneumonia, congestive heart failure, edema, pleural effusion, pneumothorax, or tumors. It can help detect acute conditions and guide further imaging or treatment decisions.

Technique typically involves obtaining at least two views, most commonly a posteroanterior (PA) view and a lateral view, to provide a more complete assessment of the lungs and mediastinal contours. In certain situations, anteroposterior (AP) or portable radiographs may be used. Chest radiographs use ionizing radiation, but doses are generally low and are justified by the clinical information gained. Shielding may be used to protect sensitive areas when feasible.

Interpretation is performed by radiologists or trained physicians who assess lung markings, heart size and contour, mediastinal width, presence of effusions, pneumothorax, atelectasis, infections, masses, and osseous structures. Limitations include its two-dimensional projection and limited sensitivity for small nodules or early disease; CT or MRI may be needed for further evaluation.

The term derives from Wilhelm Röntgen, the pioneer of X-ray imaging; mellkasröntgen is the Hungarian term for chest radiography.