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- DOI 10.18231/j.ijirm.12188.1862416434
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CrossMark
Unusual case of gravel aspiration in the left main bronchus and iron deficiency anaemia: A rare manifestation of Pica
- Author Details:
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Bhanuteja N
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Narendra Babu Mandalapu
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Prasanth Kumar Sarella *
Prasanth Kumar Sarella *
Introduction: Foreign body aspiration (FBA) is a frequent and potentially life-threatening emergency in young children leading to respiratory sequelae. This usually manifests as sudden onset of cough, dyspnoea and wheezing mimicking asthma and other pulmonary conditions. While common objects such as nuts, coins, and toy parts are typical aspirated items, its association with pica as a sequela of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA), is rare and underreported. Clinical evaluation along with radiologic aspects play crucial role in diagnosis and management.
Case Report: A 2-year-old male child whose built is malnourished presented with a progressive cough and breathlessness.He belonged to lower socio-economic status. Evaluation a foreign body obstructing the left main bronchus on CT scan. CBP as a part of routine investigations revealed moderate iron deficiency anaemia.
Bronchoscopy under general anesthesia successfully removed a small piece of gravel from the bronchus. The child made an uneventful recovery and was discharged after 24 hours.
Conclusion: This case emphasizes the significance of recognizing pica as a possible manifestation of Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA), which may lead to unusual foreign body aspiration in young children. This potential link is often overlooked and hence routine evaluation for iron deficiency anaemia is recommended in pediatric FBA (Foreign Body Aspiration) cases, as early diagnosis and management can help prevent serious complications.
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