Foreign body aspiration in a child.

BACKGROUND

Aspiration of a foreign body can lead to a fatal outcome, especially in children younger than 3 years of age.

CASE PRESENTATION: A healthy 2-year-old child was admitted to the emergency unit due to cough and respiratory distress. They were admitted to the paediatric ward with a tentative diagnosis of pneumonia. Atter some hours, the child deteriorated, showing severe respiratory compromise. Non-invasive respiratory support and inhalation therapy were ineffective. The child was intubated, but mechanical ventilation was not feasible due to hypercapnia. Bronchoscopy was carried out and several foreign bodies were removed. Visual examination revealed fragments of almonds. The child was discharged from hospital after 12 days.

INTERPRETATION: The child underwent aspiration. After intubation, the almonds may have caused a ball-valve effect, leading to the life-threatening situation. It is important to consider a foreign body as a potential cause of abnormal respiratory symptoms in children.