This document discusses the radiographic findings of complete opacification of one hemithorax seen on a chest x-ray. It notes that the position of the mediastinum and trachea can help narrow the differential diagnosis. Specifically:
- If the trachea is pulled towards the opacified side, possibilities include pneumonectomy, total lung collapse, pulmonary agenesis, or pulmonary hypoplasia.
- If the trachea remains central, consolidation, pulmonary edema/ARDS, a pleural mass, or chest wall mass should be considered.
- If the trachea is pushed away from the opacified side, a pleural effusion, diaphragmatic hernia,