Kerley lines

Kerley Lines

Kerley lines (pronounced: KER-lee lines) are thin linear opacities seen on chest radiographs, particularly in the periphery of the lungs. They are named after the British radiologist, Peter James Kerley, who first described them in 1933.

Etymology

The term "Kerley lines" is derived from the name of the British radiologist, Peter James Kerley, who first described these lines in 1933.

Types

There are three types of Kerley lines: Kerley A lines, Kerley B lines, and Kerley C lines.

• Kerley A lines are long, horizontal lines that are typically seen in the upper two-thirds of the lungs. They are caused by interlobular septal thickening and are usually associated with pulmonary edema.
• Kerley B lines are short, horizontal lines seen at the lung bases. They are also caused by interlobular septal thickening and are typically associated with congestive heart failure.
• Kerley C lines are less commonly seen and are short, fine lines found throughout the lungs. They are caused by thickening of the smallest interlobular septa.

Clinical Significance

Kerley lines are often seen in conditions that cause pulmonary edema, such as congestive heart failure, pneumonia, and pulmonary fibrosis. They are a radiographic sign of interstitial edema, which is fluid accumulation within the lung's interstitial space.

Related Terms

• Interstitial lung disease
• Pulmonary edema
• Congestive heart failure
• Pneumonia
• Pulmonary fibrosis

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Kerley lines
• Wikipedia's article - Kerley lines

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