High density GI lesions on CT (mnemonic)

Last revised by Daniel J Bell on 4 Apr 2020

There are several mnemonics to remember the causes of high density lesions in the gastrointestinal tract on CT:

  • CHIPES
  • COINS
  • PIG BEACH

Mnemonics

CHIPES
  • C: chloral hydrate/cocaine packets
  • H: heavy metals
  • I: iodinated compounds, e.g. contrast media, iron
  • P: phenothiazines
  • E: enteric-coated pills
  • S: solvents e.g. carbon tetrachloride
COINS
  • C: chloral hydrate/cocaine packets
  • O: opiate packets
  • I: iron and heavy metals
  • N: neuroleptic agents
  • S: sustained release/enteric coated pills
PIG BEACH
  • P: phenothiazines
  • I: iodinated compounds, e.g. contrast media
  • G/B: gummy bears (due to an iodinated food dye 2)
  • E: enteric-coated pills
  • A: amiodarone
  • C: chloral hydrate/cocaine packets
  • H: heavy metals

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