False-negative abdominal CT scan in a cocaine body stuffer

Am J Emerg Med. 1999 Nov;17(7):702-4. doi: 10.1016/s0735-6757(99)90166-3.

Abstract

Computed tomography (CT) imaging has been touted as one of the best techniques to detect body packets in body packers and stuffers. The majority of experience has been with body packers. We describe a case of a body stuffer who presented with abdominal pain after ingesting a large packet containing multiple small packets, with a falsely negative abdominal CT scan without contrast. This case raises questions regarding the best method of detection of body packets in body stuffers.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain / etiology*
  • Adult
  • Crack Cocaine*
  • Emergency Treatment / methods*
  • Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal
  • False Negative Reactions
  • Foreign Bodies / complications*
  • Foreign Bodies / diagnostic imaging*
  • Foreign Bodies / surgery
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Stomach*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / standards*
  • Urography

Substances

  • Crack Cocaine