Скачать или смотреть Pericardial Effusion: Explanation of Chest X-ray Findings (Water Bottle Heart)

While looking at this chest x-ray, the first thing that may come to your attention is the unusual appearance of the cardiac silhouette. It has a large and globular shape, which apparently resembles a leather water bottle of yore. Now regardless of any visual similarity, the name is fitting enough since the pericardial sac is filled with fluid (i.e., effusion). More objectively, however, the cardiothoracic ratio in this image is approximately 0.6, which is larger than normal. On a PA radiograph such as this one, the cardiothoracic ratio should be less then 0.5. Now on a bit of a side note, this value is not measured on an AP radiograph because over-magnification of the heart would give an inaccurate estimation of the it’s size. Finally, inspection of the airway reveals that the lower trachea is not quite vertical and that the carina appears to be displaced to the right. This appearance can occur if the x-ray was performed while the patient was rotated to the right. As well, encroachment of the engorged pericardial sac on the lower airway can also push the carina away from the mid-line.

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Disclaimer: All the information provided by Medical Education for Visual Learners and associated videos are strictly for informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice from your health care provider or physician. It should not be used to overrule the advice of a qualified healthcare provider, nor to provide advice for emergency medical treatment. If you think that you or someone that you know may be suffering from a medical condition, then please consult your physician or seek immediate medical attention.