timing as to when to repeat a chest xray (CXR) if consolidation or infection on chest x-ray film

Last edited 03/2019

Follow up of consolidation/infection on Chest Xray (CXR)

  • in some series up to 10% of pneumonia has an underlying lung cancer
    • therefore all consolidation on CXR should be followed to resolution

    • it takes 6 weeks for radiological clearance of pneumonia on CXR (longer with COPD)

    • If not cleared at 6 weeks then refer as two week wait (TWW) with persistent consolidation

Contributor (May 10th 2018):

  • Dr Judith Drought Respiratory Consultant, University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire, Walsgrave, Coventry Clifford Bridge Rd, Coventry CV2 2DX