A chest x ray is a procedure used to evaluate organs and structures within the chest for symptoms of disease. Chest x rays include views of the lungs, heart, small portions of the gastrointestinal tract, thyroid gland and the bones of the chest area. X rays are a form of radiation that can penetrate the body and produce an image on an x ray film. Another name for x ray is radiograph.

Chest x-rays, or films, are frequently ordered to diagnose or rule out pneumonia. Other lung disorders such as tuberculosis, emphysema, and pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs) may also be detected or evaluated through the use of chest x ray.

When cancer is suspected, a chest x ray may also be ordered by a physician to check for possible tumors of the lungs, thyroid, lymphoid tissue, or bones of the thorax. These...