DEAR DR. GOTT:
I recently had an “upright and PA lateral” chest X-ray. The report stated “tortuosity of the descending aorta is again noted” and “mediastinum is full but stable”. The current X-ray was compared with the previous X-ray from November 2002.
My reason for writing is I would like to know what these two statements mean. I am a 65-year-old woman with several medical conditions and medications.
DEAR READER:
I will first say that you should consult your physician about the results of your chest X-ray as he or she is familiar with your case. That being said, I will now answer your question.
First, “tortuosity of the descending aorta” simply means that your aorta (a large artery leading down from your heart) is twisted or bent more than normal. Without the X-ray you likely would never have known this and it has probably been present for years, if not since birth.
As for the statement “mediastinum is full but stable”, this may mean that you have air in the space between your lungs but that it is not causing any harm. However, without seeing the X-ray, knowing your past and current medical history, your medications, and more, I cannot say this for sure.
I urge you to return to your physician and ask for an explanation of the results. You are entitled to know what those statements mean and how they may affect you. If your physician refuses, I recommend you seek out a second opinion from another physician.
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