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Mediastinitis in a child caused by perforation of pharynx
American Journal of Diseases of Children (1960)
|August 1, 1975
Insights
Mediastinitis in children from trauma is uncommon. A case highlights pharyngeal perforation by a pencil causing mediastinitis, a rare but serious pediatric condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
- Medical Traumatology
Background:
- Mediastinitis, an infection of the mediastinum, is a rare complication in pediatric patients following trauma.
- Literature review indicates a paucity of reported cases linking pediatric trauma to secondary mediastinitis.
Observation:
- A specific case involved a child experiencing mediastinitis subsequent to a pharyngeal perforation caused by a pencil.
- This traumatic pharyngeal perforation in neonates can present symptoms similar to esophageal atresia.
Findings:
- Traumatic pharyngeal perforation, particularly from sharp objects in older children, can lead to secondary mediastinitis.
- The study underscores the importance of considering mediastinitis in pediatric patients with a history of oral or pharyngeal trauma.
Implications:
- Early recognition and diagnosis of traumatic pharyngeal perforation are crucial for timely intervention in pediatric cases.
- This case report expands the understanding of rare traumatic injuries in children and their potential severe sequelae.
- Awareness among clinicians is vital for managing pediatric patients with suspected pharyngeal trauma and preventing mediastinitis.
Abstract:
Mediastinitis in infants and children secondary to trauma is rarely reported as evidenced by a literature search. A case of mediastinitis occurred following perforation of the pharynx by a pencil. In neonates, traumatic perforation may mimic esophageal atresia. In older children with a history of trauma to the mouth or pharynx by a sharp object, the possibility of secondary mediastinitis exists.