Spontaneous Non-Traumatic Emphysema in Toddler: The Neglected Foreign Body

Abstract

Foreign body aspiration is a major cause of fatality and morbidity in children. The child may present acutely with signs of respiratory distress or chronically with symptoms suggestive of respiratory infection. Variable presentations make it difficult to diagnose a case of foreign body aspiration, especially in the absence of a clear history of aspiration. Subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum are rare presentations. Here, we report a case of 2-year-old child who presented with non-traumatic extensive neck and upper chest subcutaneous emphysema. Computed tomography revealed there was presence of foreign body in left bronchus. Emergency bronchoscopy found a piece of peanut in the left main bronchus. It was successfully removed and the patient was discharged well after three days.