pqrstu of CXR

Q: What is the "pqrstu" of the chest-x-ray (CXR)?

Answer: Few people know that like the famous 'pqrs' of EKG, CXR also has a 'pqrsu' classification though now mostly of academic interest since CT scans become a norm. This classification is based on shape and size:

p - Round/nodular opacity - up to 1.5 mm

q - Round/nodular opacity - 1.5-3 mm

r - Round/nodular opacity - 3-10 mm

s - Irregular/linear/reticular opacity - up to 1.5 mm

t - Irregular/linear/reticular opacity - 1.5 to 3 mm

u - Irregular/linear/reticular opacity - 3 to 10 cm

#radiology

#pulmonary

Reference;

1. Paul stark - Evaluation of diffuse lung disease by conventional chest radiography - @©UpToDate - https://www.uptodate.com/contents/evaluation-of-diffuse-lung-disease-by-conventional-chest-radiography

2. Russell, A (Ed). International Labour Office: Guidelines for the Use of ILO International Classification of Radiographs of Pneumoconioses. Revised Edition 1980. Medical Radiography and Photography 1981; 1:2.