Kinetic sand! A tale of sandy times.

Abstract

Kinetic magnetic sand, composed of ultra-fine sand and dimethicone in a 98%-2% ratio, is a versatile sensory toy known for its moldable properties and structural stability (1). Despite the name, it lacks actual magnetic features. Ingesting kinetic sand can pose risks, including choking and gastrointestinal issues, especially in young children. This case report details a unique incident involving a 3-year-old who ingested a significant amount of kinetic sand. Although the sand's ingredients are generally hypoallergenic and nontoxic, its grainy texture presented challenges for retrieval. The patient was closely monitored, and ultimately, the sand passed without complications. While no official guidelines exist for managing such cases, individual assessments, considering factors such as ingestion time, symptoms, and age, are crucial for determining the appropriate course of action, which may range from observation to more invasive procedures like endoscopy or surgery.