Dynamic Air Bronchogram Ultrasound Sign in a Noninvasive Ventilated Patient.

Acute dyspnea is one of the most common complaints in any emergency department. Physical examination and chest radiography have been insufficient to diagnose these patients accurately and quickly. We present a clinical case of a dyspneic patient presenting to the emergency department, who was promptly diagnosed with lobar pneumonia by point-of-care pulmonary ultrasonography. This permitted the rapid onset of adequate treatment. Furthermore, we describe a dynamic air bronchogram sign in a noninvasive ventilated patient. Chest computed tomography scan was performed confirming consolidation of the middle lobe. The advent of handheld point-of-care ultrasonography is revolutionizing practical care enabling physicians with a high-accuracy, low-cost, fast, safe, and repeatable diagnostic tool.

Ultrasound Assessment in a Pregnant Woman? Not just for the Fetus.

Pericarditis is a relatively common diagnosis worldwide; however, there are few data published on the frequency, diagnosis, and management of pericardial diseases in pregnant women. Ultrasonography has established its utmost importance and is worldwide recognized in pregnancy and fetal evaluation. Moreover, point-of-care ultrasonography of pregnant women, guided by clinical examination and history, can play an equally fundamental role. We present a case of a 37-year-old pregnant woman who presented at the emergency department with pleuritic chest pain, fever, and cough. Bedside point-of-care ultrasonography confirmed pericarditis revealing an organized pericardial effusion, leading to patient hospitalization and initiation of therapy. The importance and acknowledgment of portable and hand-held ultrasonography devices are growing since it enables physicians not only to make a fast and accurate diagnosis but also to access evolution in inpatient and outpatient settings.