Clinical Pharmacology & Biopharmaceutics
Open Access

Abstract

Introduction: Foreign bodies lodged in the upper airway are a common occurrence in children. Many unusual foreign bodies in the nose have been reported as foreign bodies like nuts, plastic toy parts, beads, etc. Most of these produce minimal morbidity but button batteries due to their early chemical disintegration require early surgical intervention.. Here, we report a case of button battery lodged in the nose for several years with a symptom of nasal obstruction and chronic sinusitis. Case: 18-year-old female patient was referred to our clinic with a diagnosis of foreign body in the nose. She was admitted to doctor with nasal obstruction complaint many times before and acute sinusitis treatment was given. Physical examination demonstrated that the right nasal passage was occluded with a black-colored, rigid and an irregular foreign body. It was removed out and under an irregular and darkish surface, silver colored button battery can be distinguished in this structure. She could not remember when she put this button battery into her nose. There was no any necrosis or perforation where the battery was removed. Discussion: Cases of foreign body in the nose usually occurs in childhood. Foreign bodies in the nose often do not cause significant morbidity or mortality, but this is not valid for button battery cases. The immediate removal is necessary when noticed. Generally, they are in alkaline structure leading to further chemical disintegration upon contact with saline nasal mucosal discharge. Secondary to chemical, electrical and mechanical trauma, ulceration and necrosis of the nasal mucosa and cartilage may be seen, and even perforation may occur. In our patient, button battery does not cause any damage to the nose interestingly. She did not remember when she put it into her nose. Probably the remaining voltage of the battery was diminished. Conclusion: The most effective management of foreign body is prevention. Therefore, if the matter once occurs, early detection is the main management strategy of foreign bodies. Because of rapid progression of tissue damage, early removal of button batteries must be required.

Biography

Email: drozkanonal@selcuk.edu.tr