A case report of intestinal obstruction due to magnetic ball ingestion

Abstract

Background: Toys with magnetic balls and objects can lead to serious consequences in children. We report a child with a history of magic ball (magnetic toy) ingestion. Case Presentation: A 4-years-old girl, previously healthy and developmentally normal, presented to the emergency department of the hospital with a 10 days’ history of vomiting and abdominal pain. Parents took her to different hospitals, where she was treated as a case of acute gastroenteritis and gastritis. Routine laboratory tests were normal, and an abdominal ultrasound also did not reveal any abnormality. Parents also did not report anything unusual in history. An abdominal X-ray was done in the Emergency room, which showed a collection of approximately 18 rounded radiopaque objects in the right lower abdomen with the signs of intestinal obstruction. Magnetic balls were removed after laparotomy followed by uneventful recovery. Conclusion: Awareness about the serious consequences of magnetic toy ingestion and the need to supervise children while playing is emphasized. It is strongly recommended that to reduce further damage, the International Safety Standards for the use of small magnets should be established.