Laryngeal foreign body mistreated as recurrent laryngitis and croup for one year

Abstract

Foreign body aspiration (FBA) is a common, dangerous problem among children of all ages. Laryngeal foreign bodies may present with less severe symptoms compared to lower respiratory tract foreign bodies, resulting in misdiagnosis, confusion and delay. We present the case of a 20-month-old girl with laryngeal foreign body unrecognized for one year. She was treated for recurrent laryngitis and infectious croup several times. A triangular- shaped, red plastic material with sharp edges was removed from the larynx by direct laryngoscopy. The clinical presentation and management are discussed.