Radiographic manifestations of plaque in New Mexico, 1975-1980. A review of 42 proved cases.

The radiographic findings in 42 proved cases of plague are examined. There was a high association between bilateral alveolar infiltrates and secondary pneumonic plague; however, these findings were not completely specific, as they were also seen in some patients who had disseminated intravascular coagulation or shock lung, In an endemic area and in the proper clinical setting, any patient with bilateral alveolar infiltrates should be considered to have secondary pneumonic plague until proved otherwise.