[Obstructive bronchitis caused by an unrecognized foreign body in the esophagus]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology and Pulmonology

Background:

• Recurrent respiratory symptoms like wheezy bronchitis and pneumonia in infants can be challenging to diagnose.
• Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) can indicate underlying esophageal issues in children.

Observation:

• A 9-month-old infant presented with a 4-month history of recurrent wheezy bronchitis, pneumonia, and dysphagia.
• Imaging revealed an impacted, radiolucent foreign body in the esophagus.

Findings:

• The esophageal foreign body was identified as a nipple.
• Surgical extraction of the esophageal nipple led to the complete resolution of the infant's respiratory symptoms.

Implications:

• Esophageal foreign bodies can present with atypical respiratory symptoms in infants.
• Esophagoscopy is a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic tool for children with unexplained respiratory issues and dysphagia.
• Early diagnosis and removal of esophageal foreign bodies can prevent serious respiratory complications.