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doi:10.1016/S1036-7314(13)00042-8

Chest x-ray quizAnswer and discussion

This patient’s chest x-ray reveals a small right apical pneumothorax, which is diffi cult to identify. The fact that 10 posterior ribs can be counted should alert you to the fact that this x-ray has been taken on full inspiration. When a person inspires the diaphragm contracts and descends and the lungs expand. Therefore, following a deep breath in, 10 posterior ribs or 6 anterior ribs will be visible. The Medical Offi cer requested that a further chest x-ray be taken on expiration. (See May issue for the result).

For Question turn to page 6 of this issue