title: X-ray appearance of subcutaneous gemstones as part of alternative/holistic medicine: a case report and review of the literature.
abstract: The authors present a case of a deceased man with numerous subcutaneous nodules identified as foreign bodies on radiographic films. The foreign bodies were gemstones inserted underneath the skin as a form of holistic medicine. The X-ray findings of this case and a review of the literature for similar subcutaneously implanted foreign bodies used in holistic, alternative, or folk medicine are presented.
authors.affiliation: Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner, 2250 S. Ankeny Boulevard, Ankeny, IA 50023, USA. jmclemor@idph.state.ia.us
authors.forename: Jerri
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: McLemore
authors.forename: Aaron L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Hallengren
mesh_terms: D000529:Complementary Therapies / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005547:Foreign Bodies / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006694:Holistic Health; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography