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Case Reports
. 2024 Nov 30;16(11):e74819.
doi: 10.7759/cureus.74819. eCollection 2024 Nov.

Esophageal Perforation Resulting From Nonaccidental Trauma in a Neonate: A Case Report

Lanah Almatroud  1 , Rashed Hasan  2
Affiliations
Case Reports

Esophageal Perforation Resulting From Nonaccidental Trauma in a Neonate: A Case Report

Lanah Almatroud et al. Cureus. .

Abstract

Esophageal perforation (EP) resulting from nonaccidental trauma in a neonate is extremely rare. We report a previously healthy 12-day-old neonate presenting with stridor, respiratory distress, and bloody vomitus. Clinical, radiographic, and endoscopic evaluations confirmed the diagnosis of EP. The patient received respiratory support, remained on nothing by mouth (NPO) status, and was administered parenteral nutrition for seven days until healing was confirmed. Upon resuming oral feeding, the neonate tolerated it well and was discharged home. A follow-up endoscopy, six weeks later, revealed normal findings. Early recognition and treatment of EP are crucial to prevent complications. To our knowledge, this is the youngest reported case of EP due to nonaccidental trauma.

Keywords: child abuse; infant respiratory distress; nonaccidental injuries; pediatrics & neonatology; traumatic esophageal perforation.

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Conflict of interest statement

Human subjects: Consent for treatment and open access publication was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Anteroposterior chest radiograph showing pneumomediastinum (arrow) immediately following intubation.
Figure 2
Figure 2. Computed tomography (CT) scan showing extensive air dissecting (arrows) through the soft tissues of the mediastinum and neck.
Figure 3
Figure 3. Endoscopy showing a false tract (arrow) originating from the upper one-third of the esophagus, with fresh blood at the edges.
The normal esophagus is seen at the 1 o’clock position, with no evidence of injury.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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