Can chest X-ray detect heart failure in newborns?

Mar 04, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Chest X-ray examination plays an auxiliary role in diagnosing heart failure in newborns. When newborns develop heart failure, they may present with symptoms such as pulmonary congestion and pulmonary edema, which can appear on X-ray images as increased and thickened pulmonary markings, and even butterfly-shaped shadows, indicating fluid accumulation in the lungs. In addition, the cardiac silhouette may be enlarged.

  X-ray refers to X-ray examination, and heart failure refers to congestive heart failure. Chest X-ray examination can usually help diagnose neonatal heart failure, but diagnosis should not be based solely on chest X-ray findings. If experiencing any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.

  Chest X-ray plays a certain auxiliary role in diagnosing neonatal heart failure. When a newborn develops heart failure, it may be accompanied by symptoms such as pulmonary congestion and pulmonary edema. These symptoms may manifest on X-ray images as increased and thickened pulmonary markings, and even butterfly-shaped shadows, indicating fluid accumulation in the lungs. Additionally, the cardiac silhouette may appear enlarged, which are indirect signs of heart failure.

  However, it's important to note that chest X-ray is only an auxiliary diagnostic method, and its accuracy can be affected by multiple factors, including image quality, the newborn's position during imaging, and the interpreting physician's expertise. Therefore, when diagnosing neonatal heart failure, in addition to chest X-ray examination, other tests should also be considered, such as electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiography, blood gas analysis and pH measurement, as well as biochemical and blood glucose testing.

  In the diagnostic process, multiple test results and clinical manifestations should be comprehensively considered. When neonatal heart failure is suspected, a comprehensive evaluation should be conducted by a specialized pediatrician.

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