See a Pin and pick it up … radiographically!

Abstract

A 67-year-old female was referred to secondary care with asymptomatic foreign bodies visible on intra-oral radiographs. Clinical examination was unremarkable. Radiographic examination revealed nine pin-like radio-opaque objects throughout the face and head present on multiple previous imaging modalities. The patient was unaware of their presence and could not account for them. A review of available literature revealed similar objects have been used during acupuncture and cosmetic procedures without complication. As the objects were asymptomatic, the patient was reassured and discharged. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Routine radiographic examination of patients may reveal the presence of unusual and unexpected findings.