Apex of lung is best assessed by –
**Core Concept**
The apex of the lung refers to the superior portion of the lung, where it meets the dome of the pleural cavity. Assessing the apex of the lung is crucial in diagnosing conditions such as pneumothorax, pleural effusion, or lung tumors.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is the **Apical lordotic view** or **Apical view**, which is an X-ray projection that provides a clear image of the lung apex. This view is useful in detecting apical lesions, such as Pancoast tumors, or assessing the lung apex in cases of pneumothorax. The lordotic view is obtained by tilting the X-ray beam 15-20° caudally, which helps to visualize the lung apex more clearly.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Chest CT scan is not the best method for assessing the apex of the lung, as it is more expensive and not always necessary for initial diagnosis.
**Option B:** Chest X-ray in the upright position is not ideal for assessing the lung apex, as the lung tissue is more opaque in this position, making it harder to visualize the apex.
**Option C:** Supine chest X-ray is not suitable for assessing the lung apex, as the lung tissue is compressed by the weight of the mediastinum, making it harder to visualize the apex.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember that the apical lordotic view is essential in diagnosing Pancoast tumors, a type of lung cancer that originates in the apex of the lung and can invade adjacent structures.
**Correct Answer:** C. Apical lordotic view.