A Leech in the Nasopharynx of a Child: A Case Report.

ABSTRACT

Infestation with leeches can happen due to drinking from spring water or other unhealthy water from non-hygienic sources or swimming in infested water like Wells and swamps, and can lead to several complications in the aerodigestive tract. Epistaxis, melena, and foreign body sensation had been reported in the literature as manifestations of this condition. We described a 12-year-old child presented to our department with dry cough and spitting of blood after swimming in the water pond of a Well that led to leech entry into the nasopharynx. Removal was done, and the patient became symptom free. Infestation with a leech can lead to variable symptoms in the aerodigestive tract like spitting of blood and irritation at the site of its attachment. Hence, leech should be put in mind in dealing with patients visiting physicians with the above symptoms, especially, if they come from rural areas that drink spring or Well water.