Chest X-ray findings in Inactive Tuberculosis

1. Discrete fibrotic scar or linear opacity
2. Discrete nodule(s) without calcification
3. Discrete fibrotic scar with volume loss or retraction
4. Other- any other findings prior TB- such as upper lobe bronchiectasis

1. Discrete fibrotic scar or linear opacity: the edges of these densities should be distinct and there should be no suggestion of airspace opacification or haziness between or surrounding these densities. Calcification can be present within the lesion and the lesion is called as "fibrocalcific" scar.

2. Discrete nodules without calcification: one or more nodular densities with distinct borders and without any surrounding airspace opacification. Nodules are generally round or have rounded edges. These features allow them to distinguish from infiltrates or airspace opacities. To be included here, these nodules must be non-calcified. No follow up needed for calcified nodules.

3. Discrete fibrotic scar with volume loss or retraction: discrete linear densities with reduction in the space occupied by the upper lobe. Associated signs include upward deviation of the fissure or hilum on the corresponding side with asymmetry of the volume of two thoracic cavities.

4. Discrete nodule(s) with volume loss or retraction: one or more nodular densities with distinct borders and no surrounding airspace opacification with reduction in the space occupied by the upper lobe. Nodules are generally round or have rounded edges.

5. Other - prior TB i.e. upper lobe bronchiectasis (bronchial dilatation with bronchial wall thickening).

Follow up:

• Musculoskeletal abnormalities
• Cardiac abnormalities
• Pulmonary abnormalities

No follow up:

• Pleural thickening: irregularity or abnormal prominence of the pleural margin including apical capping (thickening of the pleura in apical region); may be calcified.
• Diaphragmatic tenting: localized accentuation of the normal convexity of the hemidiaphragm as if pulled upwards by a string.
• Blunting of costophrenic angle: loss of sharpness of both costophrenic angles or one. Blunting can be related to a small amount of fluid in pleural space or to pleural thickening. Large pleural effusion is a sign of actve TB at any age.
• Minor musculoskeletal abnormalities
• Minor cardiac abnormalities
• Solitary calcified nodules or granuloma: discrete calcified nodules or granuloma or calcified lymph node. The calcified nodule can be within the lung, hila or mediastinum.