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What Does Bilateral Basal Opacities In An X Ray Mean?
Question: I had an exray that indicated bi basilar opacities? Does that mean cancer?
Brief Answer:
It doesn't mean cancer.
Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXX
Thanks for writing to HCM
Bilateral basal opacities doesn't mean cancer.
These may be due to many reasons like fluid accumulation in heart patients,Small segmental collapse(non aerated lung in small area),pneumonia etc.
It is important to know your clinical details.
If these opacities are due to fluid accumulation then it will clear with medicines(diuretics are used for this purpose,fluid are excreted out through urine).
If it appears due to infection(suggested by fever etc),then antibiotics are needed.
It may also be due to collapse(non aeration).Collapse may occur due to retained secretions etc.Small collapse doesn't require any medicines.
So,you should consult your doctor.There is nothing to be worried. Treatment depend upon clinical findings.
Get well soon.
Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.
Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX
It doesn't mean cancer.
Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXX
Thanks for writing to HCM
Bilateral basal opacities doesn't mean cancer.
These may be due to many reasons like fluid accumulation in heart patients,Small segmental collapse(non aerated lung in small area),pneumonia etc.
It is important to know your clinical details.
If these opacities are due to fluid accumulation then it will clear with medicines(diuretics are used for this purpose,fluid are excreted out through urine).
If it appears due to infection(suggested by fever etc),then antibiotics are needed.
It may also be due to collapse(non aeration).Collapse may occur due to retained secretions etc.Small collapse doesn't require any medicines.
So,you should consult your doctor.There is nothing to be worried. Treatment depend upon clinical findings.
Get well soon.
Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.
Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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