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Jun 16, 2021 · Blunting of the costophrenic angle (also known as blunting of the costophrenic sulcus) is a chest radiograph sign usually indicative of a small pleural effusion. It may be seen on either frontal or lateral erect projections.
Oct 15, 2023 · Any blurring or abnormalities in this angle may indicate potential lung or pleural issues. For example, if the costophrenic angle appears blunt or obliterated, it might be a sign of pleural effusion (accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity).
Blunting of the costophrenic angles is usually caused by a pleural effusion, as already discussed. Other causes of costophrenic angle blunting include lung disease in the region of the costophrenic angle, and lung hyperexpansion.
Alteration in shape and angle may occur as part of blunting and usually indicates pleural or pulmonary disease. Isolated blunting of the CP angle is usually considered to represent pleural disease such as small pleural effusion or mild pleural thickening.
Jun 22, 2012 · The amount of fluid to be evident on a posteroanterior film is 200 mL, whereas costophrenic angle blunting can be appreciated on a lateral film when approximately 50 mL of fluid has accumulated. Classically, a homogenous opacity is seen with obliteration of the costophrenic angle and a curved upper border, ie, the Ellis S-shaped curve ( Figure 3 ).
Mar 26, 2024 · Excess fluid in the pleural cavity is likely to collect at the costophrenic angle due to gravity, which on an x-ray results in the costophrenic angles no longer appearing sharp and distinct. This is referred to as blunting of the costophrenic angles and may signify that a pleural effusion is present.
Assessing the costophrenic angles. On a frontal chest X-ray the costophrenic angles should form acute angles which are sharp to a point. Costophrenic "blunting" is often due to the presence of a pleural effusion, but it can also be related to other pleural disease or lung disease.
