Mitral Stenosis X- Ray Findings

Radiological signs seen in mitral stenosis are:

§  Backward displacement of esophagus by enlarged left atrium (in lateral view X-ray). Also the earliest sign.

§  Straightening of left heart border due to enlarged left atrium.

§  Double shadow due to enlarged left atrium. Dense right atrial shadow superimposed within fainter left atrial shadow that touches the diaphragm.

§  Splaying of carina (The left main bronchus is lifted up by the enlarged left atrium)

§  Prominent upper zone pulmonary veins (Inverted moustache sign /  Antler’s horn sign / Cephalisation pulmonary of blood flow)

§  Enlarged pulmonary trunk (This occurs following the development of pulmonary hypertension)

§  Kerley B lines (indicating fluid collection in the interlobular septa. 1-2 cm in length lines in lung peripheries perpendicular to and extend out to pleural surfaces.)


NOTE: Here is a chest radiograph exhibiting classic findings of chronic mitral stenosis.

Are you interested in knowing the Peripheral signs in Aortic Regurgitation? Click here.

Causes of Cyanotic Heart Disease

Causes of Cyanotic Heart Disease: the five "terrible T's" and one "S"
1. Transposition of the great vessels
2. Total anomalous pulmonary venous return
3. Tetralogy of Fallot
4. Truncus arteriosus
5. Tricuspid atresia
6. Severe pulmonic stenosis