Imaging in chest disease

Chest radiography (CXR) and computed tomography (CT) are among the more commonly needed imaging investigations in patients with lung disease. The CXR is often the first test requested and has the advantage of a low radiation dose. However, the utility of CXR is limited – particularly for diffuse lung diseases – and CT is then generally required. Modern CT scanners can acquire images of the thorax in a single breath-hold and provide exquisite morphological detail, but the added radiation burden should be a major consideration for physicians and radiologists alike.