Unusual cervical foreign body - a neglected thermometer for 5 years: A case report

BACKGROUND: Foreign body in the deep neck is mostly associated with accidental ingestion of the animal spiculate bone which penetrates the full-thickness of the aerodigestive tract into the fascial spaces of the neck. In general, perforation of the esophagus often results in periesophagitis and even fatal abscesses. The presence of a giant foreign body in the neck without obvious symptoms or complications for many years is rare. CASE SUMMARY: We present the case of a 32-year-old man who intentionally swallowed a thermometer which was unable to be located by endoscopy at his initial visit. He had no remarkable symptoms for 5 years other than paresthesia and limited movement of the left neck until 7 d before this admission. The foreign body was removed successfully by the surgery. CONCLUSION: The presence of a giant foreign body in the neck without obvious symptoms or complications for many years is rare. Both endoscopic and radiological examinations are essential for the diagnosis of alimentary foreign bodies.