An unusual case of pulmonary contusion in a child

Atamari-Anahui N.; Llave-Pérez M.A.; Nuñez-Paucar H.; Pezo-Morales J. · Revista Cubana de Medicina Militar (2025)

Resumen

Introduction: Pulmonary contusion is a complication of thoracic trauma. It is uncommon in falls from low heights and can initially mimic other illnesses such as pneumonia due to its acute presentation. Objective: To address the case of a 12-year-old boy who suffered a simple back fall and developed severe respiratory distress. Case Report: A 12-year-old boy was admitted to the emergency department with hypoxemia, hemoptysis, and severe respiratory distress. Chest X-ray revealed heterogeneous alveolar radiopacities on both sides. He was initially diagnosed with severe pneumonia and received high-flow nasal cannula oxygen and antibiotics. During his stay in emergency, a family member who understood and spoke Spanish helped provide further medical history. The patient mentioned that he had fallen backward from a height of one meter while playing with his friends, and that respiratory symptoms had subsequently begun. Based on these findings, he was diagnosed with pulmonary contusion. Fluids were restricted, and the patient improved within 48 hours. Conclusions: Pulmonary contusion can occur in falls from low heights and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia.

Instituciones: Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola