Magnetic Mishaps-Small Bowel Obstruction Caused by Ingested Magnets Complicated by Appendicitis: A Case Report

Magnet ingestions are a growing pediatric emergency due to the use of widely available stronger magnets in toys. A legislative ban briefly reduced injuries, but cases rose after its reversal in federal court. Magnet ingestions are resulting in increasing morbidity and mortality, specifically due to bowel obstruction and perforation.

We present a complex case involving a child with global developmental delay presenting to the emergency department for evaluation of abdominal pain. While the initial evaluation focused on working up appendicitis, which he was found to have, he was also found to have ingested multiple magnets causing small bowel obstruction and perforation.

This case highlights the need for emergency physicians to maintain a high level of suspicion when evaluating pediatric patients with abdominal pain, especially those with developmental delay. It also encourages parental education and further advocacy to help stem the increase in pediatric morbidity and mortality resulting from the ingestion of magnets.