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Massive powder aspiration in a toddler.
C P Alexander1, Thomas Gordon, Gibicote Sridhar
1Department of Child Health, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632 004, India.
Indian Pediatrics
|April 9, 2005
Summary
A toddler aspirated calcium carbonate powder, a rare pediatric emergency. Bronchoscopic removal of the powder led to a successful recovery, highlighting effective intervention for foreign body aspiration.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Emergency Medicine
- Foreign Body Aspiration
Background:
- Foreign body aspiration is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in young children.
- Calcium carbonate powder, commonly found in antacids and supplements, poses a unique risk due to its particulate nature.
Observation:
- A toddler presented with symptoms suggestive of airway obstruction following suspected ingestion of calcium carbonate powder.
- Initial clinical and radiological assessments indicated the presence of an inhaled foreign body in the tracheobronchial tree.
Findings:
- Bronchoscopic examination confirmed the presence of particulate calcium carbonate material within the toddler's airways.
- Successful removal of the aspirated calcium carbonate powder was achieved using flexible bronchoscopy.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and intervention in pediatric foreign body aspiration.
- Bronchoscopic removal is a safe and effective treatment modality for airway obstruction caused by particulate matter like calcium carbonate.
- Awareness among caregivers regarding potential hazards of household substances is crucial for preventing such incidents.