AZ
942

Kerley A and B lines are thin, linear opacities seen on chest X-rays that indicate the presence of pulmonary edema or other forms of interstitial lung disease. These lines represent the abnormal thickening of the interlobular septa within the lungs, typically due to the accumulation of fluid, cellular infiltration, or connective tissue changes.

While Kerley lines are most famously associated with congestive heart failure and pulmonary edema, they are not exclusive to those conditions. Other potential causes include: Mitral valve disease (especially mitral stenosis).

Kerley lines represent fluid accumulation in the lung's interstitial space. The lung interstitium is divided into three compartments:

Frequency: B lines are frequently seen in clinical practice; A lines are seen less often.

These lines represent the thickening of the deep or central interlobular septa. While they can appear alongside B lines during acute episodes of pulmonary edema, they are rarely seen in isolation.