Pulmonary edema: what can it tell us? A pictorial essay

Abstract

Pulmonary edema is a very prevalent condition, especially in the intensive care setting, and can have different origins and be caused by different mechanisms. Imaging tests, particularly computed tomography, are sometimes used in the diagnostic investigation of these patients, and may even help to elucidate the etiology. Therefore, it is essential that radiologists understand the dynamic nature of the changes associated with pulmonary edema and be able to recognize diagnostic clues that indicate possible etiologies, in addition to understanding the underlying mechanisms. This illustrated essay provides a concise review of the pathophysiology of pulmonary edema and highlights its main imaging findings, focusing on the clinical features that help to refine the etiological diagnosis.

Keywords:
Diagnostic imaging; Chest radiology; Pulmonary edema