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Mascara and eyelining tattoos: MRI artifacts
R A Weiss1, L A Saint-Louis, B G Haik
1Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University Medical Center, Atlanta, Georgia.
Annals of Ophthalmology
|April 1, 1989
Summary
Heavy metal particles in mascara and eyeliner tattoos can distort the eye's magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal. This distortion can mimic actual ocular disease, potentially leading to misdiagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Radiology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a critical tool for diagnosing ocular and orbital conditions.
- Cosmetic products like mascara and eyeliner tattoos often contain heavy metal particles.
- These particles possess paramagnetic properties that can interfere with magnetic fields.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of heavy metal particles from cosmetics on ocular MRI.
- To understand how these particles alter local magnetic fields and adjacent tissue signals.
- To determine if cosmetic-induced signal changes can be mistaken for genuine ocular pathologies.
Main Methods:
- Review of MRI principles and signal alterations.
- Analysis of the paramagnetic effects of heavy metals commonly found in cosmetic pigments.
- Correlation of observed signal distortions with potential ocular disease mimics.
Main Results:
- Heavy metal particles in mascara and eyeliner tattoos induce paramagnetic effects.
- These effects cause significant alterations in the local magnetic field within ocular tissues.
- Observed signal distortions can mimic signs of serious ocular diseases, including tumors and cysts.
Conclusions:
- Cosmetic-derived heavy metal particles pose a diagnostic challenge in ocular MRI.
- Signal distortions may lead to misinterpretation and incorrect diagnosis of ocular conditions.
- Radiologists should consider cosmetic use when evaluating ocular MRI findings for potential artifacts.