A member asked:

I have a linear opacity within the lower left lung field compatible with minimal atelectasis?

3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Donald Alves answered

Specializes in Emergency Medicine

OK: Lung tissue that is not inflated (/aerated) is atelectatic (or "deflated"). When it occurs, it often does so across a band or section of the lung, making it appear collapsed and sort of linear on chest xray. To make go away you need to take more deep breaths, but it is not concerning by itself.

Answered 5/24/2016

5.2k views

Thank
Dr. Victor Bonuel answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

Don't worry: These are incidental benign findings. Quit smoking if u smoke. Atelectasis could be due to residual effects of pneumonia, heart failure, pneumothorax , exposure to chemicals/irritants etc. Follow up with your dr for any concerns!

Answered 8/9/2017

5.2k views

Thank

Related Questions