Artifacts affecting dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and bone mineral density measurements: a case report and review of the literature.

Summary: Have you ever taken a picture and found a weird blur or shadow in it? The same thing can happen with medical X-rays! Doctors use a special X-ray called a DEXA scan to check if your bones are strong and healthy. But sometimes, things like swallowed medical dye or metal from past back surgeries can show up on the scan. These hidden objects are called "artifacts," and they can trick the machine into giving the wrong bone score. This paper looks at three patients whose bone scans were messed up by these hidden objects. It reminds doctors to always double-check the pictures closely so they don't make a mistake when diagnosing or treating patients.