What is a low-density shadow in the lungs?
Lung low-density shadows mainly refer to radiological findings of low-density shadow-like lesions in the lungs observed during chest X-ray or chest CT examinations, indicating a pathological condition of the lung. The most common cause is pulmonary inflammatory response, which includes infectious factors, non-infectious factors, and special factors.
1. Infectious Factors
Infectious causes include Klebsiella pneumoniae, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (tuberculous pneumonia), Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Mycoplasma, Chlamydia, Klebsiella species, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, among others.
2. Non-infectious Factors
Non-infectious factors include bronchial fibrosis to varying degrees, interstitial fibrosis, alveolar protein deposition, and pulmonary mucosal calcification.
3. Special Factors
In addition, less commonly seen are lung tumors—benign tumors such as teratomas and hamartomas, and malignant tumors including bronchogenic carcinoma and alveolar cell carcinoma.
If a patient presents with low-density shadows in the lungs, it is essential to further investigate the underlying cause and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. In daily life, patients with lung low-density shadows should ensure adequate rest and avoid overexertion. Diet should be light, avoiding spicy and strongly stimulating foods such as chili peppers, onions, and pepper. Exposure to dust should be minimized to prevent worsening of the condition. Consuming more fresh vegetables and fruits, along with appropriate intake of protein and trace elements, helps maintain lung health. Regular physical exercise can strengthen the body's resistance and immunity. Drinking sufficient water aids in promoting toxin elimination.