Tracheal and bronchial obstruction following cyanoacrylate aspiration in a toddler.
BACKGROUND
Cyanoacrylates are a common class of household substances used as adhesives and are commonly sold under brand names such as Super Glue, Krazy Glue, and others. We are reporting a case of accidental cyanoacrylate adhesive aspiration by a toddler complicated by tracheal and bronchial obstruction.


METHODS
A toddler ingested a low-viscosity cyanoacrylate product and developed a severe, persistent cough. Initial vital signs, oxygen saturation, lung sounds, and chest radiograph were unremarkable. Rigid bronchoscopy was performed and several pieces of glue were removed from both main stem bronchi. The child made a full recovery after a 10-day hospital stay.


CONCLUSIONS
Cyanoacrylate ester polymers are hard, glassy resins that exhibit excellent adhesion to a variety of materials. Aspiration of these products is a poorly described clinical entity.


CONCLUSIONS
The low viscosity of cyanoacrylate adhesive formulations makes aspiration of these products a rare but potentially life-threatening exposure. Management centers upon supportive care and consideration of rigid bronchoscopy for removal of adherent glue.
Vitale
Christopher
C
MA/RI Poison Control Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA. christopher.vitale@childrens.harvard.edu
George
Mathew
M
Sheroff
Adina
A
Hernon
Christina
C
Boyer
Edward
E
D000061:Accidents, Home; D000269:Adhesives / Q000506:poisoning*; D000402:Airway Obstruction / Q000139:chemically induced*; D001980:Bronchi / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000473:pathology; D001999:Bronchoscopy / Q000379:methods; D003487:Cyanoacrylates / Q000506:poisoning*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D014132:Trachea / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000473:pathology; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014783:Viscosity
D000269:Adhesives; D003487:Cyanoacrylates