Kerley B Lines On Cxr [new] Jun 2026

They extend all the way to the edge of the lung (the visceral pleura). Pathophysiology

While most commonly associated with heart failure, Kerley B lines can appear in any condition that causes interstitial thickening. kerley b lines on cxr

On a standard PA (posteroanterior) chest radiograph, Kerley B lines have distinct characteristics: They extend all the way to the edge

When interpreting a chest X-ray, the detection of fine, subtle lines in the lung periphery can provide a critical diagnostic clue. Among the most important of these are —a classic radiographic sign of interlobular septal thickening, most commonly associated with pulmonary edema. Among the most important of these are —a

Kerley B lines are a subtle but powerful radiographic sign. Recognizing them can shift your differential diagnosis from primary lung disease to systemic causes like heart failure or malignancy. In the emergency setting, spotting these fine peripheral lines may be the first clue to impending pulmonary edema—and a lifesaving opportunity for early intervention.

are thin, horizontal linear opacities seen on a chest X-ray (CXR) that indicate interlobular septal thickening . Named after Irish radiologist Sir Peter Kerley, these lines are a classic radiographic hallmark of interstitial pulmonary edema , typically occurring when pulmonary capillary wedge pressure exceeds 20–25 mmHg . Radiographic Appearance