A-lines

In lung ultrasound, A-lines are horizontal hyperechoic lines that appear parallel to the pleural line, representing reverberation artifacts from the interaction of ultrasound waves with air in the normal lung. These lines are a key indicator of well-aerated lung tissue. However the presence of A line doesn’t rule out all pathology and can still indicate conditions where lungs are still aerated such as asthma, COPD and pulmonary embolism. Recognizing A-lines is fundamental for rapid assessment in emergency and critical care settings, providing crucial information about lung health.

A-lines serve as a vital diagnostic sign for clinicians utilizing point-of-care ultrasound, enabling quick and accurate bedside evaluations of lung pathology. Master lung ultrasound interpretation by understanding A-lines and other essential lung signs.

Clinical Author

Dr. Emma Khabure is an experienced Family Physician in Kenya with a dedicated focus on point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) across clinical settings. Over the past 3 years, Dr. Emma Khabure has integrated ultrasound into everyday patient care, diagnosing and guiding management at the bedside. She is currently an Instructor at GUSI and serves in the Clinical Education and Quality Improvement team at GUSI.

In addition to clinical work, Dr. Emma Khabure is passionate about ultrasound education and capacity building. She has been involved in leading workshops and training programs locally, mentored trainees in ultrasound skills, and contributed to curriculum development in imaging and POCUS. Her academic interests in POCUS include the utilization of bedside ultrasound in resource-limited settings and integrating AI in ultrasound.

Dr. Emma Khabure sees ultrasound not only as a diagnostic tool but as an extension of the physical exam — empowering clinicians to make safer, faster decisions. Her goal is to expand access to high-quality ultrasound training globally, especially in resource-limited settings.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Emma Khabure enjoys traveling and family time which helps recharge and maintain balance in her day-to-day life.

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