Which radiological finding is characteristic of Pulmonary edema?

The butterfly pattern is characteristic of pulmonary edema because it reflects the distribution of fluid in the lung's interstitial spaces and alveoli. In pulmonary edema, fluid accumulates in the perihilar regions, resulting in a bilateral, symmetric distribution that resembles a butterfly's wings on chest radiographs. This pattern signifies the congestive process in the lungs, commonly associated with conditions such as heart failure or fluid overload situations.

Other patterns, although important in their respective contexts, do not specifically indicate pulmonary edema. For instance, patchy infiltrates might suggest pneumonia or other types of lung infections rather than fluid accumulation. Platelike infiltrates could indicate atelectasis or other pulmonary issues and are not exclusive to edema. Crowded air bronchogram denotes areas of consolidation and can be seen in various conditions, including pneumonia but not specifically tied to the findings of pulmonary edema.