Septal Lines Jun 2026
A Beeline Through Sir Peter James Kerley's Life - AJR Online
Septal lines represent a fascinating intersection of anatomy and pathology. In health, they are the invisible scaffolding that maintains the lung's integrity. In disease, they become a visible testament to physiological stress, whether that stress is fluid overload, malignant invasion, or fibrotic destruction. From Peter Kerley’s initial observations on plain film to the high-definition slice of a modern CT scanner, the interpretation of these lines has evolved into a sophisticated diagnostic art. By examining the thickness, contour, and distribution of septal lines, medical professionals can look through the "wall" of the lung and diagnose the systemic ailments threatening the body, proving that even the smallest architectural lines can tell the grandest stories of human health. septal lines
On CT scans, septal lines appear as thickened interlobular septa, which can be seen in a variety of patterns, including: A Beeline Through Sir Peter James Kerley's Life
| Type | Location | Key Feature | |------|----------|--------------| | | Upper/mid zones, central | Long (2–6 cm), radiating from hila into lung, unbranched. Less common now due to better CT correlation—often represent thickened deep lymphatics. | | Kerley B lines | Peripheral, especially costophrenic angles | Short (1–2 cm), horizontal, reaching pleura at right angles. Most common and specific type. | | Kerley C lines | Lower zones, reticular pattern | Finer, reticular (net-like) opacities—actually represent overlapping B lines in a limited area. Now considered non-specific. | From Peter Kerley’s initial observations on plain film
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