Multiple Esophageal Foreign Bodies in an Infant: A Rare Case of Serious Parental Neglect

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Otolaryngology
• Medical Case Reports

Background:

• Esophageal foreign bodies are common in children, but multiple foreign bodies are rare.
• Ingestion often has a clear history, making cases without history challenging.
• Socioeconomic factors can impact healthcare access and child welfare.

Observation:

• A 1-year-old child presented with multiple esophageal foreign bodies.
• No history of foreign body ingestion was reported.
• The child belonged to a lower socio-economic stratum.

Findings:

• Successful retrieval of multiple esophageal foreign bodies using rigid esophagoscopy.
• The case presented uniquely due to the absence of a known ingestion history.
• The case underscored issues of societal neglect towards vulnerable children.

Implications:

• Rigid esophagoscopy is an effective treatment for multiple pediatric esophageal foreign bodies.
• Clinicians should consider foreign body ingestion even without a clear history, especially in high-risk populations.
• This case highlights the need for increased societal awareness and support for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.