Is a chest X-ray (CXR) 2 view the same as a posteroanterior (PA) and lateral chest X-ray?

Yes, a chest X-ray 2-view is the same as PA and lateral views

A 2-view chest X-ray specifically refers to posteroanterior (PA) and lateral projections performed together, which is the standard imaging approach for comprehensive chest evaluation. 1

Standard Terminology and Technical Definition

• The term "2-view chest radiograph" is synonymous with obtaining both a posteroanterior (PA) view and a lateral view as part of a single examination 1

• This combination represents the reference standard for chest radiography and provides superior diagnostic accuracy compared to single-view imaging 2, 3

Clinical Rationale for Two Views

Best diagnostic results are obtained when a 2-view chest radiograph (posteroanterior view and lateral view) is performed, as emphasized by the American College of Radiology 1

• PA and lateral radiographs together have significantly greater sensitivity (83.9%) for detecting parapneumonic effusions compared to single-view AP radiographs (67.3%) when using CT as the reference standard 2

• The afferent and efferent vasculature and smaller pulmonary arteriovenous malformations may be difficult to see on a single-view chest radiograph, but are better visualized with the 2-view approach 1

• Single AP radiographs miss approximately 16% of parapneumonic effusions compared to PA and lateral views 2

What This Means in Practice

When you order or see documentation for:

• "Chest X-ray 2-view" = PA + Lateral views
• "CXR 2 views" = PA + Lateral views
• This is distinct from a single AP portable view, which is lower quality 3, 4

Important Distinction from Portable AP Views

• PA and lateral chest radiographs are considered the reference standard and are typically higher quality and preferred over AP portable radiography when feasible 3, 4

• Portable AP radiographs are not part of the standard 2-view examination—they are single-view studies performed at the bedside for patients who cannot be transported 4

• PA views require the patient to stand upright with their chest against the detector, which provides optimal image quality for diagnostic purposes 4