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Left lower lobe pneumonia - retrocardiac consolidation

Case contributed by Henry Knipe
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Cough and fever.

Patient Data

Age: 40 years
Gender: Female

Left lower lobe consolidation and air bronchograms consistent with pneumonia. Loss of the medial left hemidiaphragm silhouette. No pleural effusion. Right lung is clear.

Lateral projection clearly demonstrates the consolidation and air bronchograms. 

Case Discussion

Behind the heart is a classic place for "hidden" pathology (infection, cancer, etc), and should be a check area not only in the exam but in everyday practice. 

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