Abstract

There are a few signs in radiology which are based on common objects or patterns that we come across in our routine lives. These signs are compiled with an intention to provide a comprehensive review of the scientific basis behind these signs and their importance in thoracic imaging. With a thorough understanding of these signs in conjunction with the relevant medical history, we can have a systematic approach to the problems in thoracic imaging, which can assist in a proper patient management. The objective behind the association between such common objects and the corresponding pathologies is to make the reader understand and remember the disease process. These signs do not necessarily indicate a particular disease, but are usually suggestive of a group of similar pathologies which will facilitate in the narrowing down of the differential diagnosis. Radiological signs are classical and distinctive abnormalities, characteristic of a disease or a group of similar pathologies which can be seen either on a plain radiograph or on a computed tomography scan. These signs are generally based upon and associated with common objects and patterns that we come across in our routine lives. The objective behind establishing such an association is to help the reader understand and memorize their appearance and characteristics. The familiarity and application of these signs can facilitate in narrowing down the differential diagnosis and timely management of the disease. In this essay, we describe 5 classical radiological signs used in chest imaging, which are extremely helpful in routine clinical practice not only for radiologists but also for chest physicians and cardiothoracic surgeons.

Keywords

radiology, lung, thoracic radiology