What are common X-ray findings associated with pneumonia?

Pleural effusions are indeed a common X-ray finding associated with pneumonia. In the context of pneumonia, pleural effusion can occur when inflammation spreads to the pleural space, leading to the accumulation of fluid. This can be seen on an X-ray as blunting of the costophrenic angles or as a meniscus sign, indicating fluid presence. Recognizing pleural effusions is important for determining the extent of infection and planning appropriate intervention, such as thoracentesis if necessary.

Other findings may also occur with pneumonia but are not as directly characteristic or commonly associated. For instance, while conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease could lead to a flattened diaphragm on X-ray, this is not a typical finding specifically tied to pneumonia. Additionally, a ground-glass appearance is often linked more to interstitial lung disease or acute respiratory distress syndrome than to classic pneumonia presentations. Bilateral diffuse infiltrates could indicate more systemic involvement such as viral pneumonia but are not specific or common for all types of pneumonia. Therefore, pleural effusions are the most relevant and common finding associated with pneumonia on an X-ray.