Unusual foreign body aspiration in a 4-year-old patient

Abstract

We present a case of a 4-year-old male child presenting with sudden onset of respiratory distress after aspirating a thumbtack. Prompt diagnostic evaluation with x-ray confirmed the presence of a radiodense foreign body at the level of the epiglottis, and the full size of the object was not clear on imaging. Visualization and retrieval of the object using video laryngoscopy resulted in a favorable outcome. This case underscores the unique anatomy of pediatric airways as well as the importance of timely recognition and intervention in cases of foreign body aspiration in pediatric patients to prevent respiratory compromise and ensure optimal clinical outcomes.