Gravity-dependent atelectasis

Case contributed by Doaa Faris Jabaz
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Smoker presented with dry cough.

Patient Data

Age: 35 years
Gender: Male

Subpleural dependent density consisting of a thin strip of ground glass attenuation was noted on the posterior segments of the right lower lobe, which completely vanished when the patient was re-scanned in a prone position reflecting gravity-dependent atelectasis.

Case Discussion

Gravity-dependent atelectasis is mostly related to prolonged shallow breathing rather than an interstitial process, distinguishing the two can be done easily by scanning the patient in a prone position.

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