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Aortic pseudoaneurysm due to ingested foreign body
Insights
A child survived a life-threatening thoracic aortic pseudoaneurysm caused by an ingested safety pin. Early diagnosis of esophageal foreign bodies is crucial for preventing cardiovascular complications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Esophageal foreign bodies, particularly sharp objects, pose a risk for serious cardiovascular complications.
- Delayed diagnosis of ingested foreign bodies can lead to severe, life-threatening conditions.
Observation:
- A case report details a child with a pseudoaneurysm of the thoracic aorta resulting from an ingested safety pin.
- The diagnosis remained elusive for four months, highlighting diagnostic challenges.
Findings:
- Ingested sharp foreign bodies, like safety pins, can directly injure the aorta, leading to pseudoaneurysm formation.
- Serial chest X-rays revealing an enlarging mediastinal mass are critical indicators for further investigation.
Implications:
- A high index of suspicion is essential for early diagnosis of cardiovascular complications from esophageal foreign bodies.
- Prompt and aggressive radiologic evaluation is necessary when mediastinal masses are detected.
Abstract:
We have described a child with pseudoaneurysm of the thoracic aorta caused by an ingested safety pin, who survived this life-threatening injury in which the diagnosis was elusive for four months. Esophageal foreign bodies, especially sharp, pointed ones, can cause such a cardiovascular complication. A high index of suspicion is imperative if the diagnosis is to be made early. Serial chest x-ray films showing an enlarging mediastinal mass should trigger aggressive radiologic evaluation.