Chest X-ray (Radiography of the chest)

Chest X-rays show a good view of the lungs, along with an outline of the shape and size of the heart and the pulmonary artery. The patient stands between the viewing panel and the photographic plate that will contain the finished X-ray when developed. In some cases, two views of the chest area are taken.

Radiography of the chest produces X-rays that look a bit like black and white photographs.

The chest X-ray can reveal certain abnormalities of the heart and lungs that are characteristic of PH. It may also provide clues to other non-PH causes of breathlessness, such as scarring of the lung. A certain percentage of patients with PH will however have a normal chest X-ray, so in either situation, additional testing is required to firmly establish a diagnosis of PH.

Patients with PH may have an enlarged heart due to the fact that it has to work harder so the muscles get thicker. This abnormal increase in size can also cause the heart to lean to one side.

Often the doctor may also be able to see if the main pulmonary arteries are enlarged. In patients with early disease however, these changes may be difficult to spot.