Journal Published Online: 01 March 1991
Volume 36, Issue 2

Pitfalls in the Diagnosis of Drug Smuggler's Abdomen

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

Narcoties “body packing” can be detected in abdominal X-rays by the ring shadow caused by air trapped in the packs. In a series of 82 cases admitted for abdominal X-ray in Helsinki. Finland, in 1982 through 1988, we encountered 9 (11.0%) true positives, 3 (3.6%) false positives, and 1 (1.2%) false negative. The false positives were due to the constipation often associated with the narcotics abuse. The false negative X-ray diagnosis was attributable to an inexperienced radiologist. False negatives may also be associated with packets containing marijuana, packs with few wrappings, aluminum-foil coated packs, and machine-packed narcotics. Searching for trapped air in radiographs, repeated X-raying by an experienced radiologist, use of computed tomography, or combined urinary drug screening may be applied to diminish false findings and to avoid unnecessary arrest for the purpose of fecal screening over several days.

Author Information

Karhunen, PJ
University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
Suoranta, H
University Central Hospital of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
Penttilä, A
University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
Pitkäranta, P
University Central Hospital of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
Pages: 6
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS13042J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS13042J