A chest x-ray is an
x-ray of the chest, lungs, heart, large arteries, ribs, and diaphragm.
How the Test is Performed
You stand in front of the x-ray machine. You will be told to hold your breath when the x-ray is taken.
Two images are usually taken. You will need to stand against the machine, and then sideways.
Why the Test is Performed
Your doctor may order a chest x-ray if you have any of the following symptoms:
It may also be done if you have signs of
tuberculosis,
lung cancer, or other chest or
lung disease.
A serial chest x-ray is one that is repeated. It may be done to look at or monitor changes found on a previous chest x-ray.
References
Gotway MB, Elicker BM. Radiographic techniques. In: Mason RJ, Broaddus CV, Martin TR, et al.
Murray & Nadel's Textbook of Respiratory Medicine
. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2010:chap 19.
Stark P. Imaging in pulmonary disease. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds.
Cecil Medicine
. 24th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 84.
Update Date: 9/1/2012
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc.
Copyright 1997-2013, A.D.A.M., Inc. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized in writing by ADAM Health Solutions.
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