A-air bronchogram

An A-air bronchogram is a medical term used to describe a specific pattern seen on chest X-rays or scans. It appears as dark, air-filled tubes (bronchi) outlined against a lighter, fluid-filled or solid area in the lung. This pattern indicates that the airways are open, even though the surrounding lung tissue may be affected by conditions like pneumonia, where fluid or infection surrounds the airspaces. Recognizing an A-air bronchogram helps doctors identify the presence of lung infections or other issues, guiding diagnosis and treatment decisions.