Radiologist Questions X-Ray

My abdominal X-ray look a little hazy. What could this indicate?

I underwent an X-ray to diagnose the cause of my abdominal pain. However, my X-ray looks a little hazy and the doctors aren't sure on where they should concentrate. Why did this happen?

11 Answers

It can be related to a variety of reasons. An ultrasound and/or CT scan will be warranted if the problem persists.
Suggest ultrasound of abdomen and pelvis
It could suggest ascites. Follow up with an abdominal ultrasound or CT scans of the abdomen.
Most of the time it indicates some motion.
Haziness in an abdominal X-ray usually indicates breathing motion artifact.

Brian
If you continue to have abdominal pain, you should get a CAT scan with oral and IV contrast media. Haziness could be fluid, lack of bowel gas, or a mass.
The film may look hazy for several reasons. It could be a technical problem, or it could indicate that there is inflammation or fluid in your abdomen. I cannot tell from the description which would be more likely. Your doctors will have to put together the clinical physical examination and the appearance of the film to determine whether additional imaging is warranted. This could be accomplished with either an ultrasound or CT depending upon the clinical impression of the referring doctor. I hope this helps to answer your question.

Best wishes,

Dr. Lerro
Ascites!
May happen if there is excess of gaseous distension within the bowels
X-rays are of little value, CT is better.
An abdominal X-ray is merely a screening study. A hazy appearance could mean several things. Your doctor is best consulted regarding follow-up.