A Missed Nasopharyngeal Foreign Body.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Medical Imaging
• Endoscopy

Background:

• Nasopharyngeal foreign bodies are exceptionally rare occurrences.
• Early diagnosis and immediate removal are critical for favorable outcomes.
• Foreign bodies in the nasopharynx can present with subtle or atypical symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of a missed nasopharyngeal foreign body.
• To emphasize the importance of a comprehensive evaluation of the upper aerodigestive tract during endoscopy for foreign body ingestion.
• To highlight the diagnostic challenges and management of foreign bodies in the nasopharynx.

Main Methods:

• A case study of a 31-year-old female patient presenting with otitis media and nasal stiffness.
• Diagnostic imaging (unspecified) and nasal endoscopy were utilized for identification.
• Surgical removal of the foreign body via nasal endoscopy.

Main Results:

• A chicken bone was identified and successfully removed from the nasopharynx.
• The patient had a prior history of foreign body ingestion with a failed esophageal endoscopy.
• The foreign body was missed during previous investigations.

Conclusions:

• Despite rarity, nasopharyngeal foreign bodies should be considered in the differential diagnosis.
• Thorough endoscopic examination of the entire upper aerodigestive tract is essential in cases of suspected foreign body ingestion.
• Prompt and accurate diagnosis and removal are crucial to prevent complications.