Paravertebral Line

The left paravertebral line can normally be seen due to reflection of the mediastinal pleura over the descending aorta and esophagus. This is normal.

However, when it is viewed on the right side it is abnormal. Consider the following possibilities:

• Dilated esophagus 

• Paravertebral nodes 

• Osteophytes 

This example is due to paravertebral nodes.

Labeled film below.