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An unusual intranasal foreign body
P Fosarelli1, S Feigelman, E Pearson
1Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore.
Pediatric Emergency Care
|June 1, 1988
Summary
Button batteries lodged in the nose can cause severe nasal septum destruction. Prompt medical attention and preventative measures are crucial to avoid these serious button battery injuries in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Medical Device Safety
Background:
- Button batteries are common household items that pose a significant risk of injury when ingested or inserted into body cavities.
- Foreign body nasal obstruction is a common pediatric emergency, with button batteries presenting a unique and severe threat.
Observation:
- A case report detailing a child with a button battery retained in the nasal cavity for several weeks.
- The prolonged presence of the button battery led to extensive necrosis and perforation of the nasal septum.
Findings:
- Button battery insertion into the nose can result in rapid and severe mucosal damage due to electrochemical reactions and pressure necrosis.
- The pathophysiology involves leakage of alkaline material, causing liquefactive necrosis and subsequent septal perforation.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical need for prompt diagnosis and removal of nasal button batteries to prevent irreversible damage.
- Emphasizes the importance of public awareness and parental education regarding the safe storage and handling of button batteries to prevent pediatric injuries.