Bronchial Compression and Tracheosophageal Fistula Secondary to Prolonged Esophageal Foreign Body

Abstract

Introduction: Foreign body ingestion is a common pediatric problem that can have a delayed presentation, as presented herein.

Case report: We present the case of a 15-year-old female who developed bronchial compression and an acquired tracheoesophageal fistula secondary to a longstanding esophageal foreign body.

Discussion: There are several challenges in diagnosis and management of this unusual situation. We review the literature regarding prolonged retention of foreign bodies and the challenges in diagnosis in the developmentally disabled child.

Conclusion: Providers must have a high suspicion for foreign bodies in the case of unusual symptoms present in children with neurodevelopmental delays.

Keywords: and airway; foreign bodies in the ear; nose; pediatric airway; pediatric airway surgery; pediatric otolaryngology; trachea.