Elevated Hemidiaphragm: The elevation of one side of the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen and plays a key role in breathing, can indicate a potential issue. This issue might originate below, within, or above the diaphragm itself. Below the diaphragm: There could be a cyst, infection, fluid accumulation, blood collection, a tumor, or the effects of abdominal surgery. Within the diaphragm: Paralysis or weakening may occur due to phrenic nerve damage, or due to infiltration by lung cancer or another tumor. Above the diaphragm: Conditions such as atelectasis (lung collapse), lung fibrosis, painful pleurisy, or a pulmonary embolism could be present. An elevated hemidiaphragm may be suspected during a physical exam and confirmed with imaging like an X-ray or CT scan of the chest or upper abdomen. It is also known as a raised diaphragm.
