Foreign Bodies in Children as A Cause of Upper and Lower Airways Infection

Foreign body aspiration (FBA) is a common occurrence in pediatric populations and serves as a significant contributor to both morbidity and mortality rates. Correct identification of this condition requires a high level of suspicion, as both physical examination and rudimentary radiological examinations show limited sensitivity. The prevalence of this condition is higher in children who are under the age of three, with a higher incidence observed among males. Food items, specifically peanuts, are frequently implicated; however, this may vary depending on regional dietary practices. Foreign bodies are frequently encountered in the right main bronchus. Although radiographical observations cannot serve as definitive diagnostic evidence, the identification of unilateral obstructive emphysema or atelectasis can provide a valuable clue to FBA. Delay in diagnosis may lead to irreversible lung injury. Children with undiagnosed and retained FBA may present with persistent respiratory symptoms. A doctor should be alerted by unusual or long-lasting respiratory symptoms, and clinical and radiological results should be carefully investigated to see if they could be signs of FBA.