In lung ultrasound, B-lines are vertical, hyperechoic artifacts that originate from the pleural line and extend to the bottom of the screen, moving synchronously with lung sliding. These “lung rockets” are a crucial indicator of interstitial lung pathology, such as pulmonary edema or fibrosis, signifying increased extravascular lung water. Their presence suggests impaired air content in the lung parenchyma.
Understanding B-lines is vital for medical professionals utilizing point-of-care ultrasound. They provide rapid, non-invasive insights into lung conditions, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of heart failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and interstitial lung diseases. Mastering B-line identification enhances diagnostic accuracy and guides timely clinical interventions in various medical settings.
