Upon analysis of a chest radiograph taken on a female patient, the radiographer notices that there is an uneven radiographic density over the lung bases. One lung base is significantly underexposed compared to the other. In an effort to determine the possible cause(s), a logical strategy to take would be to

a. inspect the AEC detectors and retake the image.
b. retake the image on expiration.
c. ask the patient if she has had a previous breast surgery.
d. make a note for the radiologist that you cannot explain the opacification, as the patient is asymptomatic.

c. ask the patient if she has had a previous breast surgery.