An unexpected computed tomography finding in a suspected body packer.

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Forensic Medicine
• Toxicology

Background:

• Computed tomography (CT) is a key imaging modality for detecting internal drug smuggling.
• Body packing, the concealment of drugs within the body, poses diagnostic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report an unusual CT finding in a suspected body packer.
• To illustrate a novel method of drug trafficking disguised as medical treatment.

Main Methods:

• A suspected body packer presented with low back pain and an abdominal cast.
• Plain CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis was performed.
• The cast's composition was analyzed.

Main Results:

• CT revealed an abdominal cast with a nodular appearance and heterogeneous density, distinct from plaster.
• Subsequent investigation confirmed the cast contained cocaine.

Conclusions:

• Body packers may use external devices, such as casts, to traffic drugs.
• Imaging findings should be carefully evaluated for atypical presentations in suspected smugglers.