An Unusual Left-Sided Chilaiditi Sign: An Incidental Radiological Finding

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.