The Ctrl and Shift keys can become ‘stuck’ if you release either one before releasing the Alt key. For example, holding Ctrl+Alt to subtract from a mask and then releasing the Ctrl key leaves you in masking mode. As you probably know holding Ctrl and clicking an interface item dislodges it from a palette or removes it from the interface.
A quick tap of the Ctrl key will set you back on track, of course minus any interface items you clicked on.
I must have grown accustomed to this behaviour as it has not happened to me in a long long time. Still wish it could be turned off though.
I’m also on a PC, XP pro.