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Vomiting in pregnancy resulting in oesophageal perforation in a 15-year-old
T J Woolford1, A R Birzgalis, C Lundell
1University Department of Otolaryngology, Manchester Royal Infirmary.
Insights
Vomiting during early pregnancy caused esophageal perforation in a 15-year-old, leading to facial swelling. This rare case highlights a unique presentation of esophageal rupture in pediatric and adolescent patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
Background:
- Spontaneous esophageal perforation is exceptionally rare in children.
- Perforation secondary to vomiting, particularly in pregnancy, is also uncommon.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old female presented with esophageal perforation and subcutaneous emphysema.
- The perforation was a direct result of vomiting in early pregnancy.
- Marked facial swelling was the primary sign, with no other overt symptoms.
Findings:
- The case details a unique instance of esophageal rupture in an adolescent.
- Subcutaneous emphysema was a significant finding, manifesting as facial swelling.
- This presentation differs from the typical Boerhaave's syndrome.
Implications:
- This case expands the differential diagnosis for esophageal perforation in adolescents.
- It underscores the importance of considering pregnancy-related complications in young females presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Further research into pregnancy-associated esophageal injuries may be warranted.
Abstract:
Spontaneous perforation of the oesophagus is extremely rare in children, as is perforation due to vomiting in pregnancy. We report the case of a 15-year-old in whom vomiting in early pregnancy resulted in oesophageal perforation with subcutaneous emphysema causing marked facial swelling in the absence of other signs. The more common clinical presentation of spontaneous oesophageal rupture (Boerhaave's syndrome) is discussed.