Oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal specimens collected by swabbing are the pillars of
severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) diagnostics. Commercially
available rapid antigen tests and self-sampling polymerase chain reaction services
have made specimen collection available anytime and anywhere in nonmedical settings.
In this study, we report the case of a 45-year-old man who accidentally ingested a
swab during self-performed SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen testing. Imaging studies revealed
an elongated foreign body in the stomach. Urgent gastroscopy confirmed the presence
of the swabbing applicator in the gastric lumen, which was retrieved using a loop
without any complications. Millions of SARS-CoV-2 tests are performed daily, of which
an increasing proportion are performed by laypeople. Foreign bodies account for a
particular set of complications, which can be avoided by cautious sampling and using
the correct technique. Radiopaque labeling of instruments would be useful. Otherwise,
rare serious events can occur that may require immediate medical interventions.
