$Unique_ID{BRK01149}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{The Chest X-ray as a Part of the Yearly Examination}
$Subject{chest x-ray x-rays examination examinations Special Procedures
procedure Laboratory lab test Tests Respiratory bone bones enlarged heart lung
Lungs}
$Volume{P-5, H-5}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


The Chest X-ray as a Part of the Yearly Examination


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QUESTION:  Despite the fact that I have no problems with my lungs or
breathing, a chest x-ray is always included in my yearly examination.  What
can the doctor see on this examination that would make it worth while?

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ANSWER:  While the chest X-ray is a fine examination of the lungs from at
least one point of view (the other is pulmonary function tests that tell us
how lungs work, rather than how they look), there are many other organs and
structures that may be viewed and evaluated from a routine chest film.  The
physician can see the ribs, the clavicles (collar bones), and the breastbone
(the sternum).  Thus an idea of bone structure health is one possible gain.
The heart is outlined in a chest x-ray, and an enlarged heart is easily
diagnosed as well as many other heart abnormalities.  Lungs and the tissues
that surround both heart and lung can be evaluated, plus the presence of any
fluids, growths or infections.  One of the real values of regular routine
examinations is that the physician can compare one year's result to a previous
examination, and thus detect any important changes that may occur.  We all
know that medical costs must be controlled, so that the usefulness of such
examination must be calculated against possible savings that we can obtain
from early diagnosis and treatment of newly developing diseases that can be
the most valuable outcome of all.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.