Identification
Look for patchy white areas progressing to frank consolidation on the CXR – aspiration and haemorrhage are differential diagnoses (see image).
Contusions visible on the initial CXR suggest significant injury, with further radiological changes and blood gas derangement likely to follow.
Look for associated rib fractures and haemo/pneumothorax.
Rib fractures do not always co-exist, particularly in the young, where their existence indicates that significant force created the injury.