RESPIRATORY DISORDERS EXPERT FORUM
What does this chest x-ray result mean exactly?

What does this chest x-ray result mean exactly?

Histroy: Positive tuberculin skin test

Findings: Small calcifications are seen in each lung. The costophrenic angles are clear. The heart is not large. No definite hilar or mediastinal adenophathy or masses are seen.

Impression: Small bilateral pulmonary calcifications consistent with old infectious granulomatous disease.

Related Discussions
251132_tn?1198082422
The term, "old infectious granulomatous disease" refers to the calcifications.  This is usually a result of tuberculosis (TB) or a fungal infection.  At some time in the past you inhaled germs into your lungs.  Since your purified protein derivative (PPD) skin test is positive it was most likely TB.  Your immune system was able to contain the infection so that it did not spread.  Whatever caused it is now inactive and not an immediate threat.  If, at some time you should have a prolonged illness and/or should your immune system becomes weakened, it would be good to keep in mind that whatever caused the calcifications could reactivate.  The good news is that this is very unlikely to happen.  For all practical purposes, the findings of this chest x-ray are of no consequence to your health.
2 Comments
Blank
Avatar_n_tn
A related discussion, hila adenopathy was started.
Blank
2009690_tn?1327947420
A related discussion, hilar was started.
Blank
Continue discussion Blank
Go
Request an Appointment
MedHelp Health Answers
Submit
Blank
Weight Tracker
Reach your weight goal faster
Start Tracking Now
RSS Expert Activity
1741471_tn?1336957856
Blank
LIVE WEBINAR TOMORROW!-SUPER BODY, ... Blank
May 22 by Michael Gonzalez-WallaceBlank
2126606_tn?1335910182
Blank
Fibromyalgia Awareness
May 11 by Clare Waismann Kavin, RASBlank
2126606_tn?1335910182
Blank
Opioid-induced hyperalgesia reduces...
May 03 by Clare Waismann Kavin, RASBlank