CTICasesPonytail Artifact Mimicking a Hilar Nodule
Imaging findings
A PA chest radiograph shows an apparent nodular opacity near the right hilum with possible calcification, which follows a course extending toward the neck and mirrors the pulmonary artery configuration. The lateral view shows nothing in that region, and windowing reveals the patient's ponytail moved in front of her, with the scrunchie accounting for the apparent calcification.
Key takeaways
A ponytail projecting over the thorax can simulate a pulmonary or mediastinal nodule, including apparent calcification from a hair tie, and is a recurrent pitfall that can trigger unnecessary CT and patient anxiety. The lateral view is invaluable, as the absence of a corresponding finding confirms the artifact, and these cases are useful for teaching technologists to keep hair out of the field.
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