Inspiratory-expiratory lateral decubitus views in diagnosis of small pleural effusion.

Abstract

Objective : To compare the sensitivity between inspiratory and expiratory lateral decubitus chest radiographs for diagnosis of small pleural effusion

Materials and Methods : Patients refered for abdominal sonography for various reason were examined for ultrasonographic features of pleural effusion. From March 2002 until October 2003, 30 patients were found to have pleural effusion not exceeding 15 mm. in depth and were included in the study. Erect posteroanterior and lateral decubitus (in inspiration and expiration) radiographs were performed in all patients

Result : The mean thickness of fluid was 4.10 mm. on inspiratory lateral decubitus radiographs and 7.83 mm. on expiratory lateral decubitus views (P < .005). In 24 of 30 patients (80 percent) there was a different in the thickness of the fluid layer as measured in expiratory and inspiratory lateral decubitus radiographs.In 23.3 percent of patients, the fluid was not visible on inspiratory lateral decubitus projections.Conclusion : lateral decubitus