Linear X-Ray Shadows in Acquired Pulmonary Hemosiderosis and Congestion

Abstract

FAINT horizontal linear shadows are often observed in the lower lateral fields of the lung on roentgenograms of patients suffering from either acute or chronic recurrent pulmonary congestion, particularly in severe mitral stenosis. We have seen identical lines in pulmonary hemosiderosis in the absence of acute pulmonary congestion. This observation has not previously been recorded, either in the original descriptions of the latter condition by Rosenhagen¹ and Zdansky² or in the more recent comprehensive reviews by Scott et al.³ and Pendergrass and his co-workers.⁴ These linear shadows are usually best seen just above the costophrenic angle along the lateral chest . . .