Background

Capsule endoscopy was invented to visualize the entire small intestine in a non-invasive manner in adults.

Case characteristics

1 y, 9 mo-old boy presented with generalized edema for last 3 months. His routine investigations, including the upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, colonoscopy, and contrast enhanced computed tomography scan (CECT) were normal. In view of clinical suspicion of protein losing enteropathy, we planned capsule endoscopy.

Observation

The capsule was not passed even after 3 weeks. Laparoscopy revealed impacted capsule in a dilated intestinal loop proximal to an ileal stricuture.

Message

Capsule endoscopy should be used judiciously in children.