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Alive in the Airways: Live Endobronchial Foreign Bodies
Syed Rizwan Ali1, Atul C Mehta2
1Department of Critical Care Medicine, Bombay Hospital, Indore, India.
Abstract:
Aspiration of a foreign body into the lower airways is a common occurrence and can cause significant morbidity and mortality in humans. Most foreign bodies of the tracheobronchial tree are inanimate. However, the medical literature includes reports of live foreign bodies in the airways. Fish, leeches, and roundworms are the most common live foreign bodies of the lower airways. Fishermen are more prone to experience a live fish aspiration, whereas substandard conditions may expose individuals to leech and roundworm infestations. The dangers of and the approaches to the management of these foreign bodies differ from those associated with aspirated inanimate objects. The focus of this review of the medical literature was on live foreign body aspiration and its management.
Insights
Live foreign body aspiration, such as fish or leeches in the airways, is uncommon but dangerous. Management strategies for these unique cases differ significantly from inanimate objects.
Area of Science:
- Medical Sciences
- Pulmonology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Aspiration of foreign bodies into the lower airways is a frequent clinical event.
- While most aspirated objects are inanimate, live foreign bodies (LFBs) like fish, leeches, and roundworms are reported.
- LFAs pose distinct challenges compared to inanimate aspirations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the medical literature focusing on live foreign body aspiration (LFA).
- To discuss the specific dangers and management approaches for LFAs in the tracheobronchial tree.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of existing medical literature.
- Analysis of case reports and studies concerning live foreign bodies in the airways.
Main Results:
- Common LFBs include fish, leeches, and roundworms.
- Fishermen are at higher risk for fish aspiration.
- Substandard living conditions increase the risk of leech and roundworm infestations.
Conclusions:
- Live foreign body aspiration requires specialized diagnostic and management protocols.
- Understanding the unique risks associated with LFAs is crucial for effective patient care.
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