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Updated: Sep 20, 2026

Measurement of Dynamic Scapular Kinematics Using an Acromion Marker Cluster to Minimize Skin Movement Artifact
Published on: February 10, 2015
That darn scapula: a common pitfall in interpreting the chest radiograph
Stanley G Cheng1, Eric J Stern
1Department of Radiology, Harborview Medical Center, Box 359728, Seattle, Washington 98104-2499, USA.
Abstract:
For the inexperienced interpreter of chest radiographs, the normal scapula can mimic some very common and potentially serious abnormalities. Failure to recognize this normal bony structure can lead to needless diagnostic work up and treatment. The potentially mimicked abnormalities fall into 3 major categories: lung parenchymal abnormalities, pleural abnormalities, and bone abnormalities. This report discusses scapula anatomy as it pertains to chest radiographic anatomy, and the reasons for misinterpretations, and shows examples of the scapula mimicking pathologic processes.
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