What Does "few Patchy Opacities In LLZ And Left Perihilar Region" Mean?

Posted on Thu, 29 May 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 29 May 2014 Answered on

Mon, 16 Jun 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, My chest X ray report says, few patchy opacities in LLZ and Left perihilar region.
What does this mean, is this a symptom of cancer?
I quit smoking long back

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (10 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Cancer is unlikely in your case.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXX
Thanks for writing to HCM

Few patchy opacities in LLZ and Left perihilar region may be due to many reasons like pneumonia,tuberculosis etc.

It is important to know your clinical details.

Patchy opacities are generally due to pneumonia.It is not a sign of cancer.

Empirically,broad spectrum antibiotics should be given.if it is unresponsive to antibiotics then other common causes like tuberculosis should be considered.

However,patchy opacities in old age person shouldn't be ignored.It may be due to cancer.

You are only 34 years old and cancer is unlikely.It is good that you have quit smoking.

You should consult your doctor.There is nothing to be worried. Treatment depend upon clinical findings.

Get well soon.
Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar