Differential Diagnosis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): The presence of pulmonary vascular redistribution, diffuse pulmonary plethora, and interstitial prominence are classic radiographic signs of CHF, which is further supported by the presence of small bilateral effusions and bibasilar atelectasis.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Pulmonary Embolism with associated heart failure: Although less likely, a large pulmonary embolism could cause acute heart failure leading to similar radiographic findings.
- High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema: In patients who have recently traveled to high altitudes, this condition could present with similar radiographic findings due to non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema.
- Do Not Miss
- Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS): A life-threatening condition that requires immediate recognition and intervention. While the clinical context might differ, the radiographic findings could overlap, especially in the early stages.
- Pneumonia: Certain types of pneumonia, especially viral or mycoplasma, can present with interstitial patterns and could be complicated by heart failure, making it crucial not to miss this diagnosis.
- Rare diagnoses
- Lymphangitic Carcinomatosis: A rare condition where metastatic cancer involves the lymphatic vessels of the lung, potentially causing interstitial prominence and pleural effusions.
- Sarcoidosis: Although typically presenting with more upper lobe predominant findings, in rare cases, sarcoidosis could lead to a diffuse interstitial pattern and should be considered in the appropriate clinical context.