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The missing hazelnut
Cem Sultan Kara1, Sinan Celayir, Nüvit Sarimurat
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.
Insights
A swallowed hazelnut caused esophageal perforation in a child, highlighting diagnostic challenges. Early detection and prompt intervention are crucial for managing this rare pediatric emergency.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Esophageal Disorders
- Foreign Body Ingestion
Background:
- Esophageal perforation is a rare but serious condition in children.
- Foreign bodies, particularly food items, are a common cause of upper airway and esophageal obstruction in pediatric patients.
- Delayed diagnosis of esophageal foreign bodies can lead to severe complications.
Observation:
- A case of esophageal perforation secondary to an impacted hazelnut in the upper esophagus is presented.
- The foreign body was not detected initially, leading to delayed diagnosis and management.
- The clinical presentation and diagnostic challenges in this pediatric case are detailed.
Findings:
- Esophageal perforation due to a retained hazelnut presents significant diagnostic difficulties in children.
- Delayed diagnosis increases the risk of complications such as mediastinitis and sepsis.
- Management requires a multidisciplinary approach, including endoscopic or surgical intervention.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering foreign body ingestion in pediatric patients with unexplained upper gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Improved diagnostic strategies and heightened clinical suspicion are necessary to prevent delayed diagnosis of esophageal foreign bodies.
- Adherence to established treatment protocols for esophageal perforation is vital for favorable outcomes in pediatric cases.
Abstract:
This report describes a case of esophageal perforation caused by a hazelnut which became stuck in the upper esophagus but was not detected. We outline the pitfalls in diagnosis, complications and treatment in the pediatric population.
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