Chest devices and artefacts

PCP and nipple ring

This x-ray shows patchy shadowing thoughout both lungs in a patient with PCP (Pneumocystis Carinii Pneumonia) due to underlying HIV.

A nipple ring passes through an inflammed, dense nipple (arrowhead).

PCP typically causes bilateral symmetrical hilar interstitial shadowing, but it can cause any pattern of shadowing. A normal chest x-ray does not exclude the diagnosis.

Contrary to popular belief, not everyone with a nipple ring has PCP!