Intestinal perforation--a unique cause.

An illiterate, 65 years old, male attended surgery emergency with features of perforation peritonitis. Exploratory laparotomy revealed perforation in the terminal ileum and a sharp metallic object pointing at the perforation site. This, on removal, was found to be the sharp edge of a blister pack (with intact tablet within). The perforation was repaired. The abdomen was closed after leaving a drain. Postoperatively the patient had a morbid period and ultimately responded to management.