American Society of Hirudotherapy

A rare case of upper airway obstruction due to laryngeal leech infestation in a 1-year-old child

Case report published in Respiratory Medicine Case Reports (2025)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Case reportSafety & Infection ControlWoldemariam TH et al. · Respiratory medicine case reports, 2025

Abstract

Leech infestation of the upper airway is a rare but potentially life-threatening event, particularly in young children from rural areas exposed to untreated water sources. We report a case of a 1-year-old boy presenting with acute upper airway obstruction due to laryngeal leech attachment. Diagnosis was confirmed by direct laryngoscopy, and the leech was successfully removed under general anesthesia. The patient had a full recovery following the intervention. This report highlights the diagnostic challenges and management considerations in pediatric airway leech infestation and underscores the importance of public education regarding the use of safe water.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Publication typeCase ReportsJournal Article

Summary

A 1-year-old boy with acute upper airway obstruction was diagnosed by direct laryngoscopy and successfully treated by removal of a laryngeal leech under general anesthesia, with full recovery.

Context

This case report describes a 1-year-old boy presenting with acute upper airway obstruction due to laryngeal leech attachment, diagnosed by direct laryngoscopy and managed by leech removal under general anesthesia with full recovery. The study emphasizes diagnostic challenges in pediatric airway leech infestation and the importance of safe water access. This case involves a leech entirely in the context of accidental parasitic infestation from untreated water exposure, not therapeutic application. The abstract provides no discussion of leech biology, secretions, or therapeutic mechanisms relevant to hirudotherapy.

Citation

Reference (Vancouver style)

Woldemariam TH, Siyum FA, Kasaye RT, Dagne MM, Geleta MA, Abebe MT, et al. A rare case of upper airway obstruction due to laryngeal leech infestation in a 1-year-old child. Respir Med Case Rep. 2025;58:102299. doi:10.1016/j.rmcr.2025.102299. PMID: 41158144

Bibliographic details (authors, volume, pages, DOI) are taken from the PubMed record.

DOIPubMed

Added to ASH library: May 27, 2026 · Site last updated: June 18, 2026

This website provides educational information and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Medicinal leech therapy carries clinically meaningful risks and should be performed only by qualified clinicians under institutionally approved protocols. FDA 510(k) clearance for medicinal leeches is limited to specific indications; investigational and off-label discussions are labeled accordingly. For patient-specific guidance, consult a qualified healthcare provider.