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[Inspiratory stridor as the only symptom of esophageal foreign body]
Insights
An infant experienced stridor due to an esophageal foreign body, a chestnut shell, causing tracheal compression. Early diagnosis and removal are crucial for resolving these rare pediatric respiratory symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Gastroenterology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Esophageal foreign bodies are uncommon in infants.
- Respiratory symptoms can be the primary presentation of esophageal issues in infants.
Observation:
- An 11-month-old infant presented with a 2-month history of inspiratory stridor.
- Symptoms suggested middle tracheal airway obstruction.
Findings:
- A barium esophagogram identified an esophageal foreign body causing tracheal compression.
- Endoscopic removal of a chestnut shell from the esophagus was successful.
Implications:
- Esophageal foreign bodies in infants can manifest primarily as respiratory distress.
- Prompt diagnostic workup is essential for identifying non-respiratory causes of stridor in infants.
Abstract:
An eleven month old infant girl presented with a two-month history of inspiratory stridor. Analysis of her symptoms indicated airway obstruction located in the middle of the trachea; a barium esophagogram revealed an esophageal foreign body with tracheal compression. By endoscopy, a chestnut shell was extracted from the esophagus. In infancy, esophageal foreign bodies may cause mainly respiratory symptoms.