The presence of 'Kerley B lines' on a chest X-ray suggests:Question 34Select one:a.Pulmonary embolismb.Pneumoniac.Interstitial edemad.Pneumothorax

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify what 'Kerley B lines' are and their significance in medical imaging.
2. Analyze each answer option to determine which condition is most commonly associated with the presence of Kerley B lines.

Relevant Concepts

Kerley B lines are thin linear opacities seen on chest X-rays, typically located at the lung bases. They are indicative of interstitial edema, commonly resulting from heart failure or other conditions that lead to pulmonary congestion.

Analysis and Detail

1. Pulmonary embolism: This condition usually presents with different radiographic signs, such as Westermark sign or Hampton’s hump, rather than Kerley B lines.
2. Pneumonia: While pneumonia can cause various changes in lung opacities, it does not primarily associate with Kerley B lines.
3. Interstitial edema: This is the condition most directly indicated by the presence of Kerley B lines, as they signify fluid accumulation in the interstitial spaces of the lungs.
4. Pneumothorax: This condition presents with a clear visceral pleural line and does not usually result in the appearance of Kerley B lines.

Verify and Summarize

Given the analysis of each option against the knowledge of Kerley B lines, they are most consistent with interstitial edema.

Final Answer

c. Interstitial edema