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The Role of Forensic Radiology in Detecting Narcotic Body Packing: Modalities, Diagnostic Challenges, and Legal Implications

Forensic radiology and other branches of forensic science aim to produce legally admissible evidence through scientific methods. While human identification has long stood as the primary focus, experts increasingly apply forensic imaging in crime scene analysis and related investigations (Mesejo et al., 2020). Sub-disciplines such as archaeology, anthropology, ballistic comparison, and crime scene investigation routinely employ radiological imaging techniques in an interdisciplinary context (Carew & Errickson, 2019). These imaging methods, rooted in clinical radiology, now serve vital roles in legal medicine.

Conventional radiography, the oldest and still widely used method, involves exposing the body to X-rays to create grayscale images based on tissue density. Despite advancements in multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) and its ability to generate high-resolution 3D reconstructions, traditional radiography remains prevalent in forensic radiological investigations (Grabherr et al., 2016). Given the significant legal consequences tied to radiological findings, accurately selecting and applying imaging modalities in forensic contexts remains essential to prevent diagnostic errors. Continuous improvement in imaging protocols, standardization, and training is crucial to improve the accuracy, reliability, and legal defensibility of forensic radiology in narcotic detection

Human Body Packing Detection and Drug Smuggling Detection

Body packing remains one of the most common drug smuggling techniques, involving the concealment of narcotic-filled packets within body cavities (Weijiao et al., 2020). Since its first appearance in medical literature in 1973, this method has persisted due to its effectiveness, despite the serious health risks it poses to the individuals—commonly referred to as body packers—who carry the drugs (Pinto et al., 2014). Law enforcement and healthcare professionals increasingly rely on forensic imaging to detect, document, and evaluate suspected cases of body packing.

Forensic radiology employs various imaging modalities, including X-ray, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasonography (US), to visualize concealed narcotic materials. As smuggling techniques evolve, Reginelli et al. (2015) emphasized that radiologists must stay updated on these concealment strategies to maintain diagnostic accuracy and minimize complications. This essay critically examines the advantages and limitations of imaging modalities used in forensic radiology for detecting human narcotic packaging and evaluates whether a gold standard exists. It also explores the legal and ethical implications surrounding radiological findings.

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