[Swallowing magnets: a dangerous game. A case report]

[One magnet is better than two]

Accidental foreign body ingestion by children is not exceptional and occurs in most cases in children less than 5 years old. The impact is not well known. We present the case of a 31-month-old boy affected by peritonitis caused by several bowel perforations after swallowing three magnets at different times. A single foreign body magnetic ingestion does not often cause trouble, but if the ingestions are spaced out, then consequential complications can occur. This is why, in case of stomachaches in a child less than 3 years or a child with behavior problems, it is important to perform standard abdominal X-ray examination.

Worldwide survey of damage from swallowing multiple magnets

BACKGROUND

It is increasingly recognized that in children swallowed multiple magnets cause considerable damage to the gastrointestinal tract.

OBJECTIVE

To emphasize that complications from swallowed magnets are extensive worldwide and throughout childhood.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The author surveyed radiologists and researched cases of magnet swallowing in the literature and documented age and gender, numbers of magnets, nature of the magnets, reasons for swallowing, and clinical course.

RESULTS

A total of 128 instances of magnet swallowing were identified, one fatal. Cases from 21 countries were found. Magnet swallowing occurred throughout childhood, with most children older than 3 years of age. Numbers of swallowed magnets ranged up to 100. Twelve children were known to be autistic. Many reasons were given for swallowing magnets, and a wide range of gastrointestinal damage was encountered. Considerable delay before seeking medical assistance was frequent, as was delay before obtaining radiographs or US imaging.

CONCLUSION

Damage from swallowing multiple magnets is a considerable worldwide problem. More educational and preventative measures are needed.