Bronchial foreign body masquerading as a lung carcinoma

Three cases which presented with clinical and radiological features consistent with a diagnosis of lung neoplasm and eventually turned out to be due to a foreign body are described. Their management and outcome was different in each case. The value of making a firm histological diagnosis in bronchoscopically visible lesions prior to thoracotomy is emphasised. Multiple bronchoscopic examinations and biopsies may be needed to achieve a histological diagnosis.