ABSTRACT

There is a limited number of case presentations in literature related to esophagus burns and complications as a result of swallowing an alkaline battery. The main purpose of this case presentation was to discuss the autopsy findings of late-developing complications of swallowing an alkali battery in the light of the relevant literature.

On the chest radiography of a 9-month old baby with complaints of vomiting for three days, an opacity was observed consistent with a foreign body in the esophagus. Esophagoscopy was applied and the swallowed battery was removed. On the fifth day after the operation, no complication has been observed to oral feeding was started and on the following day the patient was discharged. Four days after discharge, the patient was again brought to hospital with complaints of blood in vomit and was again hospitalized with a diagnosis of chemical esophageal burn. The patient died on the following day. In the performed autopsy, findings of esophagotracheal fistula, corrosive burn and gastrointestinal system bleeding were determined.

As the dimensions of an alkaline battery increase, the contact surface increases and may this cause greater damage and toxicity. A long contact period also increases the toxic effect of the battery. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent late-developing complications.