The right paratracheal stripe is a thin, vertical line seen on chest X
rays that represents the interface between the right side of the
trachea and the adjacent lung tissue, extending from the thoracic
inlet to the right main bronchus. It is formed by the juxtaposition of
the air-filled trachea and the pleura of the right lung, along with the
thin layer of connective tissue and lymphatic structures in this area.
Normally, the right paratracheal stripe appears as a smooth line
measuring about 2-4 mm in thickness. Widening or irregularity of
the right paratracheal stripe can be a sign of various conditions,
including lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes), mediastinal
masses, thyroid enlargement, or infections.
