Beef Meat Oesophageal Foreign Body Impaction In An Infant

Abstract

Ingestion of foreign body is common and the oesophagus is the commonest site of impaction in the upper gastrointestinal tract. We present the case of a 12 month old boy who was fed beef meat and subsequently experienced persistent regurgitation which prompted radiological examination. Barium swallow examination under fluoroscopic guidance confirmed foreign body impaction, and he subsequently had endoscopic retrieval under general anesthesia. We emphasize the importance of radiological imaging in establishing an early diagnosis and effecting prompt treatment to prevent complications. This case is presented because of the rarity of beef meat bolus causing oesophageal impaction in infancy, and to highlight the role of imaging in the management of this condition. The literature was also reviewed.