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Spontaneous expectoration of bronchial foreign body: a case report

Masahiro Shikada1, Ayako Morikawa, Takashi Kobayashi

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Tokai University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan.

The Tokai Journal of Experimental and Clinical Medicine
|February 15, 2011
PubMed

Insights

A child swallowed a toy car axle, presenting a bronchial foreign body risk. Unexpectedly, the patient expelled the object through coughing and vomiting, highlighting the need for careful monitoring.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Foreign Body Aspiration

Background:

  • Airway foreign bodies pose significant risks in children, often requiring immediate medical intervention.
  • Diagnosis and treatment are primary focuses, but potential complications necessitate vigilant observation.

Observation:

  • A nine-year-old girl with mental retardation presented with a left bronchial foreign body after ingesting a toy car axle.
  • While awaiting bronchoscopic removal, the patient experienced spontaneous resolution via coughing and vomiting.

Findings:

  • The foreign body was successfully and unexpectedly expelled by the patient.
  • This case underscores the unpredictable nature of airway foreign body events.

Implications:

  • Careful monitoring of respiratory status is crucial in cases of airway foreign bodies.
  • Preparedness for unexpected events, including spontaneous expulsion, is vital in managing pediatric airway foreign bodies.

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