Hydropneumothorax is defined as the presence of both air and fluid within the pleural space.[1] An upright chest x-ray will show air fluid levels. The horizontal fluid level is usually well defined and extends across the whole length of one of the hemithorax.
Hydropneumothorax | |
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A hydropneumothorax with a white arrow pointing to the lung's pleura | |
Specialty | Emergency medicine |
This can be remembered by the 4 'S': straight line dullness, shifting dullness, splash, sound of coin.
Diagnosis can be via CXR. CT is better to outline borders of air fluid levels, however, CT has a greater radiation exposure.
Treatment includes ICD (intercostal drainage) of fluid and air and treatment of underlying conditions.