Accidental ingestion of a live fish (Pseudorinelepis genibarbis) complicated by esophageal perforation in a 7-month-old child: A case report

Foreign body ingestion is a common event in pediatric emergencies. However, the ingestion of live animals is extremely rare and can lead to severe complications. We present the case of a 7-month-old infant who accidentally ingested a live fish, resulting in respiratory distress and severe injuries with multiple lacerations in both the respiratory and digestive tracts. Therapeutic bronchoscopy and endoscopy were performed to manage the condition. This exceptional case was characterized by extensive impaction of spines and scales in the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts, requiring highly specialized management and multiple interventions without the need for open surgery. No complications were reported following the extraction. The ingestion of live animals poses a significant clinical challenge. Strengthening child supervision, particularly in rural settings, is crucial to preventing such incidents.