![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv08UQf8p4KFejPEAH7B8POQt1hlsLEF9M_2u8VXtwOdRMcQAQ-riGJ6OrXSU-Q7jatyTNoZVXEbiO2eL_yhoySDNcL4GlWRWi7pAYpYlvjXF2AjgbCqFmWMbQO5EOZQg8mLkIcuc3IA/s280/breast-mass-1.jpg)
Differential Diagnosis
- Lung: consolidation, mass, collapse
- Pleura: effusion (layering or loculated), mass (metastasis, mesothelioma)
- Chest wall: mass (breast, chest wall musculatures)
- Extrathoracic: external structures
In this case, the opacity extends beyond the lung to the soft tissue of the chest wall, corresponding to the breast. It is unlikely to be a lung lesion because normal pulmonary vasculatures are visualized through it. Pleural lesion would not extend beyond the thoracic cage. Two main possibilities include a large breast mass or external structures (for example, nonradiopaque pads on the bed).
Comparison with the previous chest radiographs revealed that this is a new finding. Further query of patient's history confirmed the diagnosis of a large left breast mass. Chest CT scan (below) also shows the mass (invasive cancer).
Reference:
Chapman S and Nakielny R. Aids to radiological differential diagnosis. 4th edition, 2003.
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