Ask the Expert: Radiographic Signs and Patterns of Pulmonary Hypertension: A Pictorial Essay

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a disease characterized by elevated mean pulmonary arterial pressure and/or elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, as measured by right heart catheterization. Individuals often present with dyspnea and decreased functional exertion. Imaging features of PH may be present prior to clinical diagnosis. Certain radiographic signs can be useful in identifying the etiology of the PH. We present a variety of imaging features that are aimed at making these etiologies apparent to clinicians, with a focus on those etiologies that do not otherwise usually have distinguishing clinical manifestations.