Oesophageal perforation following ingestion of over-the-counter ibuprofen capsules.

OBJECTIVE: We present a rare case of oesophageal perforation following ingestion of over-the-counter ibuprofen capsules. METHOD: Case report and literature review of pill oesophagitis. CASE REPORT: A previously well, 18-year-old man presented with sudden onset, severe, retrosternal pain, dysphagia and odynophagia following ingestion of over-the-counter ibuprofen capsules. Plain X-ray films and a contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan indicated the diagnosis. The patient was successfully treated with non-operative management. CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this is the first report in the world literature concerning oesophageal perforation with ibuprofen. We discuss pill-induced oesophageal injury and its prevention. Manufacturers, clinicians and patients can all take steps to avoid this potentially life-threatening complication.