Incidental radiographic finding of the concealed art of susuk. (July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Devang Divakar, Darshan; Mavinapalla, Seema; Al Kheraif, Abdulaziz Abdullah; Ramakrishnaiah, Ravikumar; Abd Rahim, Muhammad Furqon Bin; Khan, Aftab Ahmed
• Is Part Of: Medicine, science and the law. Volume 56:Number 3(2016:Jul.)
• Page Start: 230
• Page End: 232
• Publication Date: 2016-07
• Subjects: Charm needles -- forensic identification -- Malay -- ritual -- susuk; Forensic sciences -- Periodicals; Medical laws and legislation -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 614.105
• DOI: 10.1177/0025802415599567
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-8024

Abstract

Susuk, or charm needles, are small, metallic needles inserted under the skin, considered to enhance beauty, health and luck. This hidden secret of inserting susuk is a traditional superstitious ritual, widely practiced among women of Southeast Asia. Here, we present an interesting case of incidental radiographic finding of the concealed art of susuk, which was exposed on a panoramic radiograph taken on a routine basis as a part of diagnostic work up at our centre. An orthopantomogram revealed bilateral metallic foreign bodies in the maxillo-facial region. Anamnestic data affirmed the practice of the body art of susuk. The charm needles were present in the orofacial region without the patient experiencing any pathological signs or symptoms.