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Oesophageal perforation following ingestion of over-the-counter ibuprofen capsules

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 May 2008

N P Singh  and
J G Rizk
N P Singh*
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, Guy's Hospital and King's College, London
J G Rizk
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
*
Address for correspondence: Dr Narinder Singh, London House, William Goodenough College, Mecklenburgh Square, London WC1N 2AB, UK. Fax: 0207 713 5158 E-mail: singhn@bigpond.com
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Abstract

Objective:

We present a rare case of oesophageal perforation following ingestion of over-the-counter ibuprofen capsules.

Method:

Case report and literature review of pill oesophagitis.

Case report:

A previously well, 18-year-old man presented with sudden onset, severe, retrosternal pain, dysphagia and odynophagia following ingestion of over-the-counter ibuprofen capsules. Plain X-ray films and a contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan indicated the diagnosis. The patient was successfully treated with non-operative management.

Conclusion:

To our knowledge, this is the first report in the world literature concerning oesophageal perforation with ibuprofen. We discuss pill-induced oesophageal injury and its prevention. Manufacturers, clinicians and patients can all take steps to avoid this potentially life-threatening complication.

Keywords

Foreign BodiesOesophagusIbuprofenOesophageal Perforation
Type
Clinical Record
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 122 , Issue 8 , August 2008 , pp. 864 - 866
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2008

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