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Reminder: radiopacities from metal-containing substances
Sanjeev Madan1, Ahamed Mohaideen, Wallace B Lehman
1Department of Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery, New York University Hospital for Joint Diseases, New York, New York, USA.
American Journal of Orthopedics (Belle Mead, N.J.)
|November 25, 2005
Summary
Zinc oxide lotion on a diaper rash mimicked soft-tissue calcifications on an X-ray. This highlights the importance of recognizing external radiopacities in diagnostic imaging.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Pediatric Imaging
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- A 17-month-old boy presented with a left lower extremity deformity.
- The patient's mother applied zinc oxide lotion for diaper rash prior to the examination.
Observation:
- A radiograph revealed apparent soft-tissue calcifications in the groin area.
- The radiologist did not remove the diaper, obscuring the external lotion.
Findings:
- The observed radiopacities were artifacts caused by the zinc oxide lotion.
- The "calcifications" were not intrinsic to the patient's anatomy.
Implications:
- External metal-containing substances can create imaging artifacts.
- Clinicians must consider external factors that may mimic pathology on radiographs.
- Awareness of topical agents is crucial for accurate pediatric radiographic interpretation.