CTICasesLeft lower lobe atelectasis mimicking pleural effusion
Imaging findings
Portable chest radiographs show elevation of the left hemidiaphragm and progress of left base opacity without a clear meniscus, interpreted as an enlarging pleural effusion. CT demonstrates a chronic thin left hemidiaphragm and a completely collapsed left lower lobe plugged with secretions, with minimal pleural fluid.
Key takeaways
Complete lobar collapse/atelectasis can easily mimic a pleural effusion on portable radiographs. Radiographic clues such as the lack of a true meniscus, gastric bubble displacement, and volume loss should be recognized to avoid inappropriate thoracentesis or chest tube placement.
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