Aetiology
Foreign body ingestion is a common problem encountered in pediatric practice and is most commonly found in children between the ages of 6 months and 4 years. Common foreign bodies include coins, toys, buttons and jewelry.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is typically made based on the patient’s history and presenting symptoms. Physical examination may reveal signs of irritation in the throat or abdomen, and the health care provider may order x-rays or other imaging studies to determine the location of the foreign body.
Differential diagnosis
Other conditions that can present with similar symptoms include foreign body aspiration, obstructive esophageal diseases, and gastroenteritis.
Treatment
Treatment of a foreign body in the alimentary tract depends on the type and location of the foreign body. The most common treatment is endoscopic removal or extraction with an endoscope. Surgical removal may be needed if the foreign body is lodged in the small intestine or has caused a perforation.
Prognosis
The prognosis is usually good, with most foreign bodies passing through the GI tract without complications. However, complications can occur, such as perforation of the bowel, obstruction of the GI tract, or infection.