ABSTRACT
Foreign bodies of the upper aerodigestive tract in the pediatric population are a common occurrence. However, despite significant advances in prevention, first aid and endoscopic technology, they remain a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Early diagnosis is the key to successful and uncomplicated management of these accidents. An orderly and systematic approach to these patients including a careful history, physical exam and radiographic studies is detailed in this review.
Subject(s)
Bronchoscopy/methods , Child , Child, Preschool , Esophagoscopy/methods , Esophagus , Female , Foreign Bodies/diagnosis , Humans , Male , Respiratory System , Treatment OutcomeABSTRACT
There is always concern for a malignancy or other serious disease when a child presents with a chief complaint of a neck mass. However, a neck mass in child is commonly inflammatory or congenital rather than neoplastic. A complete history and physical exam will often provide enough information to guide management and reassure the concerned parents. In some cases, laboratory tests, radiologic studies or a surgical procedure may be necessary to determine a specific diagnosis and treatment plan. An organized and systematic approach is recommended and detailed in this review.
Subject(s)
Biopsy, Needle , Child , Child, Preschool , Diagnosis, Differential , Female , Head and Neck Neoplasms/diagnosis , Humans , Clinical Laboratory Techniques , Male , Physical Examination , Sensitivity and SpecificityABSTRACT
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of regular otologic care on the long-term outcome in patients with cleft palates. We report the otoscopic and audiologic findings of 50 patients who were followed regularly at our center for an average of 15.4 years. All these patients had their cleft palates repaired by the same surgical team and all ears were examined by one of the authors under the microscope and a chart review completed. Thirty eight patients had at least one tube placement. The physical abnormalities noted were tympanosclerosis (36%), retraction of tympanic membrane (TM) (20%), atrophy of TM (15%), perforation (11%), PE tube in situ (11%), thick TM (6%) and PE tube in middle ear (1%). The examination was normal in 36%. A conductive loss was noted in 18% and sensorineural loss in 3%. The results of this study support the concept of regular otologic care for cleft palate patients even when they are overtly asymptomatic.