Sebha University Journal of Medical Sciences
An Unusual Left-Sided Chilaiditi Sign: An Incidental Radiological Finding
By Sofian Elallagi and Salem Altaeb.
Abstract
Chilaiditi sign is an uncommon radiological finding caused by interposition of bowel between the diaphragm and an abdominal organ. Although usually right-sided, left-sided involvement is rare. A 61-year-old woman presented with right lower limb swelling and was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis. During assessment, a chest radiograph obtained for bilateral flank pain incidentally demonstrated elevation of the left hemidiaphragm with interposition of a bowel loop and visible haustral markings, consistent with a left-sided Chilaiditi sign. The patient had no symptoms attributable to the finding, and no specific intervention was required. Recognition of left-sided Chilaiditi sign on plain radiography and correlation with the clinical presentation can prevent misdiagnosis and unnecessary investigation or intervention.



