Advances in Understanding Recurrent Pulmonary Infections Following Foreign Body Aspiration: A Narrative Review

Recurrent pulmonary infections (RPIs) represent a common yet clinically complex entity, primarily triggered by aspiration or the presence of foreign bodies. They are notoriously insidious and challenging to detect clinically. These infections typically involve the invasion of bacteria, viruses, or fungi, leading to inflammation and damage of lung tissue. The development of RPIs may also arise from the interplay of multiple factors. Due to their inherent complexity and association with poor prognosis, RPIs constitute a significant cause of mortality stemming from pulmonary infections. Understanding the risk factors associated with RPIs secondary to foreign body aspiration is crucial for effective clinical management. This narrative review synthesizes current knowledge on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, management, and prevention of RPIs caused by foreign body aspiration. We emphasize the heightened vulnerability of pediatric and elderly populations. The review delineates characteristic clinical presentations and outlines appropriate diagnostic modalities. Furthermore, it provides perspectives on antimicrobial therapy and the critical importance of foreign body removal. The synthesis aims to inform future research directions, preventive strategies, and therapeutic approaches, ultimately seeking to improve patient outcomes and mitigate the risk of recurrent infections.