CTICasesOverlying Hair and Deodorant/Talc Artifacts Mimicking Interstitial Lung Disease and Calcification
Imaging findings
A posteroanterior chest radiograph demonstrates pseudo-interstitial opacities and apparent nodularity in the right upper lung, which correspond perfectly on a second view to hair braids and artifacts overlying the neck and chest. Additionally, fine, arcuate calcifications projected over the left lung base are shown to be external, originating from talc or aluminum-containing deodorant within the skin folds beneath the pectoral region.
Key takeaways
Overlying external structures such as hair braids, ponytails, or cosmetic products can closely mimic true parenchymal abnormalities on chest radiographs. Correlating findings with a lateral view, performing a repeat exam with hair repositioned, or checking for external materials in skin folds can prevent unnecessary and expensive follow-up CT scans.
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