CTICasesSubtle Anterior Pneumothorax in Trauma
Imaging findings
Chest radiograph in a trauma patient with left shoulder fracture-dislocation and upper left rib fractures shows a subtle lucency projecting over the spine. Correlated CT reveals an anterior pneumothorax, with the pleural air collection interface corresponding to the subtle lucency seen on the radiograph.
Key takeaways
Anterior pneumothoraces can be challenging to identify on plain radiographs, sometimes presenting as subtle lucencies or interfaces that project unusually (e.g., over the spine), without forming a typical deep sulcus sign. Careful scrutiny of radiographs in trauma settings is essential, with CT confirming subtle findings.
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