On chest X-ray, which finding is commonly observed in left-sided heart failure?

On chest X-ray, which finding is commonly observed in left-sided heart failure?

• A. Cardiomegaly on CXR
• B. Pleural effusion
• C. Dilation of the esophagus
• D. Lateral rib fracture

Answer: (A)

Cardiomegaly, or an enlarged cardiac silhouette on chest X-ray, is commonly observed in left-sided heart failure. When the left ventricle and atrium are under chronic pressure and volume overload, the heart enlarges as it remodels. This enlargement is a consistent radiographic sign you’ll see on conventional chest films. Other findings like pleural effusions can occur as the failure progresses, but they are not as uniformly present as an enlarged heart. Dilation of the esophagus and lateral rib fractures are not typical features of left-sided heart failure on chest X-ray.

Cardiomegaly, or an enlarged cardiac silhouette on chest X-ray, is commonly observed in left-sided heart failure. When the left ventricle and atrium are under chronic pressure and volume overload, the heart enlarges as it remodels. This enlargement is a consistent radiographic sign you’ll see on conventional chest films.

Other findings like pleural effusions can occur as the failure progresses, but they are not as uniformly present as an enlarged heart. Dilation of the esophagus and lateral rib fractures are not typical features of left-sided heart failure on chest X-ray.