Thermometer artifact

Case contributed by Subhan Iqbal
Diagnosis not applicable

Presentation

Shortness of breath and fever

Patient Data

Age: 40 years
Gender: Female
x-ray

An elongated radiopacity with metallic tip is seen projecting over the right mid and lower zones and represents a thermometer. Moderate volume pleural effusion with underlying lung atelectasis seen on left side.

Case Discussion

Removal of patients' belongings including patient jewelry, buttons and thermometers is necessary to avoid these types of artifacts on x-rays. Repeating the x-rays increases unnecessary patient radiation dose.

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