Fundamental Radiological Findings: Hazy Opacities

OVERVIEW

This page is dedicated to covering the important radiological finding of a hazy opacities. Look here for more radiological findings.

WHAT IS IT?

Hazy opacities (also called fluffy/cloud-like opacities) refer to a lung finding on chest X-rays. This type of opacity is typically seen in patients who have pulmonary airspace disease. These opacities typically do not have clear margins and air bronchograms may be present as well.

Hazy opacities (right pane) seen in a patient moments after aspiration of fluid. These hazy opacities are seen typically in patients with alveolar lung disease (such as this patient, source).
DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS FOR THIS FINDING

When seeing a hazy opacities, it is important too keep in mind the following possible causes of airway disease in mind:

Acute conditions:

Chronic conditions:

  • Bronchoalveolar cell carcinoma 
  • Alveolar cell proteinosis
  • Sarcoidosis
  • Lymphoma
KEY FEATURES TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHARACTERIZING THE FINDING

When seeing a hazy opacities, there are a few important radiological features one should look at to try and characterize the finding. These features can help navigate the differential diagnosis above.

Are the opacities bilateral or unilateral?

Typically a condition like alveolar pulmonary edema is not unilateral in origin.

 

Page Updated: 01.07.2016