**Core Concept**
Cardiac silhouette refers to the outline of the heart on a chest radiograph. Loss of cardiac silhouette is indicative of conditions where the heart is expanding or displaced, making it less visible on X-ray. This can be seen in conditions such as pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade, or conditions causing right ventricular enlargement.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In cardiac tamponade, the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial space leads to compression of the heart, making it appear smaller or less distinct on a chest radiograph. The increased pressure within the pericardial space causes the heart to be pushed laterally and inferiorly, resulting in a loss of the normal cardiac silhouette. This is a classic radiographic finding in cardiac tamponade, which is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not mentioned in the question, please check the options again.
**Option B:** This option does not relate to the loss of cardiac silhouette, it might be a distractor.
**Option C:** This option might be a distractor, it does not directly relate to the loss of cardiac silhouette.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Cardiac tamponade is a medical emergency requiring immediate pericardiocentesis to relieve the pressure and restore normal cardiac function. It is essential to recognize the radiographic signs of cardiac tamponade, such as loss of cardiac silhouette, to prompt prompt treatment.
**Correct Answer:** C.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.