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

Rare case of laryngeal leech infestation in 1-year-old causing upper airway obstruction — describes urgent endoscopic removal and supportive care.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

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. This is a single pediatric case report, and its relevance to ASH's domain of therapeutic hirudotherapy and the leech secretome is negligible.

Citation

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

Woldemariam TH et al. · Respiratory medicine case reports, 2025

DOI

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.