A migrating intrathoracic leaf complicated by empyema in a child

Abstract

Management of aspirated foreign body in children is challenging. In situations when the incidence is not witnessed, the diagnosis is delayed which results in later complications. When neglected, the diagnosis becomes eluding as the presentation mimics other chest pathologies. Overlooked foreign bodies result in serious complications such as lung abscess and pyothorax. Migration of aspirated foreign bodies is reported. Empyema complicating a neglected foreign body was reported once in adults but not in pediatric population. We present a case of a child with pyothorax. Intraoperatively, an intrathoracic leaf was found to be the cause. • Aspiration of foreign bodies is common in children and a leading cause of accidental death in children below 6 years of age. • The diagnosis becomes quite challenging particularly if the event was unwitnessed by the caregiver. • Retained foreign bodies might become overlooked which later on result in serious complications. • These cases warrant a high degree of suspicion to explore the possibility of a neglected aspirated foreign body.