The CT appearance of intraoral chewing gum

Pediatr Radiol. 2008 Dec;38(12):1350-2. doi: 10.1007/s00247-008-0980-0. Epub 2008 Aug 19.

Abstract

When imaged, intraoral chewing gum has the potential to be misdiagnosed. Chewing gum has a characteristic appearance on CT: it is ovoid in shape, hyperdense, and has small internal locules of air. Reports have described the appearance of gum on radiographs and abdominal CT images; however, no reports could be found detailing its appearance within the mouth. This report describes the appearance of intraoral chewing gum as well as the properties of the gum that lead to this appearance. Because of the potential for misdiagnosis, screening for intraoral foreign bodies should be considered prior to imaging.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Chewing Gum*
  • Contrast Media
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Foreign Bodies / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Mouth / diagnostic imaging*
  • Radiographic Image Enhancement / methods
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Chewing Gum
  • Contrast Media