Unexplained Foreign Body in the Abdomen: A Diagnostic Dilemma

Abstract

Introduction: Foreign body ingestion or insertion into the gastrointestinal tract is not uncommon, particularly in patients with psychiatric disorders, cognitive impairments, or cases of abuse. However, when such incidents go unreported due to altered mental status or inability to provide an accurate history, they present a significant diagnostic challenge, especially in primary or secondary healthcare facilities lacking advanced imaging modalities.

Diagnosing intra-abdominal foreign bodies can be a significant challenge in primary or secondary care settings, particularly when advanced imaging modalities are unavailable, and the patient cannot provide a reliable medical history.

We present the case of a male patient in his early 60s with a history of hypertension and psychiatric illness who arrived in an altered mental state, accompanied by fever and persistent vomiting for two days. Initial evaluation with a plain abdominal X-ray revealed a large, radio-opaque object in the abdomen.

An emergency exploratory laparotomy was performed, which uncovered an unusual assortment of foreign bodies in the peritoneal cavity, including a pestle, a pencil, and multiple eraser fragments. A tear was identified in the anal canal as the likely point of entry. The patient underwent primary repair of the perforation and a diversion colostomy.

Conclusion: This case highlights the necessity of maintaining a high index of suspicion for intra-abdominal foreign bodies in patients presenting with nonspecific abdominal symptoms, particularly when the history is limited or unreliable due to psychiatric or cognitive impairments. Prompt imaging, even basic radiographs, can provide crucial insights, and early surgical intervention can be life-saving. Surgeons must remain vigilant and receptive in their diagnostic approach, as rare and unexpected findings can significantly change management and outcomes.