An Occult Laryngeal Foreign Body in A 2-Year-Old Child: A Case Report

Abstract

Lodgment of foreign bodies in the larynx is a relatively infrequent incident, given that aspirated foreign bodies generally traverse the respiratory tract and often get stuck in the lower airways. The diagnosis of a laryngeal foreign body poses significant challenges, particularly when the object in question is small, radiolucent, and induces partial airway obstruction. Foreign body aspiration (FBA) is commonly identified in pediatric cases, characterized by a sudden onset of symptoms such as cough, dyspnea, and wheezing. This manifestation becomes especially conspicuous when there are no underlying lung conditions like asthma or chronic pulmonary infections. The differential diagnosis hinges on a comprehensive scoring system that evaluates both clinical and radiological aspects. Presented here is a case involving a 4-year-old child with a laryngeal foreign body, initially misdiagnosed due to the patient's asymptomatic presentation. This case underscores the nuances of clinical manifestation, the investigative process, and subsequent management strategies.