Tuberculosis Masquerading Foreign Body in Children

Int J Mycobacteriol. 2024 Oct 1;13(4):452-456. doi: 10.4103/ijmy.ijmy_210_24. Epub 2024 Dec 19.

Abstract

Foreign body aspiration (FBA) is a common issue in children, particularly boys, and can be life-threatening. Early removal of the foreign body (FB) leads to recovery, but delayed diagnosis may cause complications such as granuloma, recurrent pneumonia, and atelectasis. This condition often results from a child's curiosity, with factors such as inadequate swallowing reflex and activity during eating contributing to the risk. The right bronchus is the most common site for FB impaction. In this case, a child presented with persistent productive cough and shortness of breath. Initial computed tomography scans suggested pneumonia and mucoid impaction in the right lung, raising concern for tuberculosis due to a family history. However, further ultrasound and clinical findings confirmed FBA. The FB, a pen cap, was removed via bronchoscopy, and the patient's symptoms resolved. Follow-up care was provided to ensure continued recovery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Bronchi / diagnostic imaging
  • Bronchoscopy*
  • Child
  • Cough / etiology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Foreign Bodies* / complications
  • Foreign Bodies* / diagnosis
  • Foreign Bodies* / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Tuberculosis / diagnosis