Presentation
Postoperative CT imaging after removal of a hypodense mass of the left ethmoid cavity.
Patient Data
Native CT scan demonstrates an oval, dense mass in the right lower gingivobuccal sulcus. The surrounding mucosa is compressed by the mass. The mass is surrounded by a pocket of air. Tiny bubbles of air are seen inside the mass. After the scan, the patient confirmed that she had candy in her mouth.
Other findings:
The CT appearance shows local destruction of the left wall of the ethmoid cavity; no soft tissue mass is identified.
Case Discussion
Hard IOFBs had, in general, higher attenuation compared with soft IOFBs.
Another common sign was the appearance of compressed mucosa around the hard IOFB, with a small air pocket around it.
Large candies were least likely to be confused with pathology but might have been mistaken for an osteoma or other bony pathology.
When patients undergo imaging that includes the oral cavity, they are routinely asked to remove foreign bodies such as candy, chewing gum, and dentures. Generally, patients do not comply with this request, and the appearance of IOFB can cause misdiagnosis.
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