Diagnostic Imaging: Chest

Chest diseases are prevalent worldwide, and heart disease,
malignant neoplasms, and chronic lower respiratory disease
are among the top four causes of death in the United States.
Chest diseases can be categorized based on anatomic location
as affecting the airways, lungs, pleura, mediastinum, chest
wall, or diaphragm. Each of these regions may be involved by
developmental abnormalities, neoplasms, or infections.
Additionally, idiopathic, inflammatory, connective tissue,
autoimmune, and lymphoproliferative disorders may also
affect the chest. The ventilatory and respiratory functions of
the lungs and airways provide a portal for exposure to a
variety of inhalational diseases, some of which are related to
the patient's environment and occupation. Thoracic diseases
may also be categorized based on their physiological effects
as obstructive or restrictive abnormalities. Finally, the various
organs and anatomic regions of the chest may be affected by
traumatic or iatrogenic conditions.