Understanding neonatal chest x-rays Part II: Clinical and radiological manifestations of selected lung disorders

Chest x-rays provide information that can help the clinician evaluate the newborn with respiratory distress. This article reviews the etiology, signs and symptoms, and common radiologic findings of the following lung disorders: (1) transient tachypnea of the newborn, (2) meconium aspiration syndrome, (3) respiratory distress syndrome, (4) chronic lung disease, and (5) air leaks. Each disorder is presented singly. Because some disorders have overlapping clinical and radiological features, clinical correlations and review of the infant's previous films are important in implementation of care.