Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy Presenting as Pharyngeal Dysphagia and Recurrent Mouth Ulcers: A Case Report.

We report a Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSBP) case, which presented as pharyngeal dysphagia and an acquired tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). A six-month-old Saudi male presented with fever, persistent oral ulcers, intermittent bleeding from the ulcers, failure to thrive (FTT), poor appetite, and possible genetic disease. He had a history of recurring admissions due to infections, including those affecting the chest, ear, and bowel. Additionally, he tested positive for vancomycin-resistant enterococcus. There was no history of surgical procedures or blood transfusions. Due to the patient's nutritional status, a gastrostomy tube was inserted. The patient had recurrent bleeding from the tracheostomy tube during the hospital stay despite normal coagulation and platelet profile. Consequently, after diagnostic laryngoscopy, the otolaryngologist specialist pointed out that such retropharyngeal injuries are seen in patients with inflicted injuries, which is, in this case, caused by the mother, as she was the only one with the child during the recurrent bleeding episodes. Thus, we describe a clinical instance of MSBP, especially imitating pharyngeal dysphagia, leading to a delayed diagnosis. We advise adding MSBP to the possible diagnoses upon encountering pharyngeal dysphagia and oral ulcers.

Multi-disciplinary surgical management of ocular and maxillofacial ballistic injury: A case report.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Injury to the maxillofacial region is of great importance due to the highly sensitive area, and the vital structures it carries. Special surgical wounding techniques must be used due to the significant tissue destruction. We report a unique case of a ballistic blast injury in a pregnant woman in a civilian setting. CASE PRESENTATION: A 35-year-old pregnant female, in the third trimester, presented at our hospital after ballistic ocular and maxillofacial injuries. Due to the complex nature of her injury, a multi-disciplinary team consisting of otolaryngologists, neurosurgeons, ophthalmologists, and radiologists was formed to manage the patient. She was managed by performing an evisceration followed by an enucleation and a spherical implant, then underwent mandibulo-maxillary fixation due to a foreign body medial to the left ramus. This initial management plan proved to be effective until two (2) years later, she presented with new onset meningocele and active CSF rhinorrhea and meningitis, due to a left anterior skull base defect. The patient was then managed by reconstructive orbital and ethmoidal roof surgery. In addition, her pregnancy had favorable outcomes after an uneventful delivery. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Civilian setting injuries are specifically sensitive due to the lack of proper protection, such as in this case. This patient, a pregnant victim of a ballistic blast injury, was managed successfully by a multidisciplinary team through multiple reconstructive surgeries yet presented with a late life-threatening complication. CONCLUSION: Long-term follow-up for such complex cases is recommended due to the possibility of late complications, despite adequate surgical management.

Renal lymphangiectasia in pediatric population: case series and review of literature.

Renal lymphangiectasia is a rare disorder where perirenal, parapelvic, and/or intra-renal lymphatics are dilated. The clinical presentation of renal lymphangiectasia can range from asymptomatic to renal failure. Ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have been used for the diagnosis. Management of such cases varies from conservative to nephrectomy. We report three cases of pediatric renal lymphangiectasia that were managed by recurrent sclerothera-pies and medical supportive treatment at our institution. A literature review is also presented. To the best of our knowledge, there are 83 reported cases in the literature, 60 adults and 23 pediatrics.

Understanding the epidemiology and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on domestic violence and child abuse in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.

Objectives: The purpose of this paper is to highlight the impact of a pandemic on the lives of vulnerable members of the community who have experienced or are 'at risk' of experiencing intimate family violence and child abuse in Saudi Arabia. By reviewing the experience in Saudi Arabia in the context of the international literature, the study explores similarities and differences in the impact of the pandemic on family violence. Methods: The study investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on family violence and child abuse in Saudi Arabia by conducting a comparative analysis of the prevalence of cases, types of abuse, and geographical location of those experiencing violence between the years 2019 and 2020. Data were obtained from the Family Violence Reporting Center 1919 in Saudi Arabia. Results: The study found that the risk of family violence and child abuse increased during the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia, similar to findings in other countries. Conversely, there was a decrease in the number of reports due to factors associated with COVID-19. Conclusions: The study highlighted the importance of ensuring that existing policies and services are sufficient to ensure the risks arising from the impact of COVID-19 responses and minimize the negative consequences.