Esophageal foreign bodies in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Radiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Esophageal foreign bodies in children can present with subtle or severe symptoms, including stridor, dyspnea, and dysphagia.
• A negative history is common, complicating early diagnosis.
• Long-standing foreign bodies may manifest as neck masses or lead to Zenker-type diverticula.

Observation:

• This study discusses five pediatric cases: two with dysphagia and three with respiratory distress.
• Clinical presentation varied, highlighting the diagnostic challenges.
• The role of imaging in identifying esophageal foreign bodies was examined.

Findings:

• Computed tomography (CT) scanning is a valuable tool for visualizing radio-transparent esophageal foreign bodies.
• CT precisely delineates the location of foreign bodies, aiding surgical planning.
• Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for preventing complications.

Implications:

• CT imaging significantly improves the diagnostic accuracy for esophageal foreign bodies in children.
• Understanding atypical presentations, like neck masses, is essential for timely intervention.
• This approach can prevent serious complications associated with delayed diagnosis and treatment.