BRONCHOSCOPIC RETRIEVAL OF AN ASPIRATED NAIL IN AN ADULT: A RARE MIMICKER OF PULMONARY NEOPLASM

Abstract

Foreign body aspiration (FBA) is an uncommon clinical occurrence in adults and often presents with nonspecific respiratory symptoms, making diagnosis challenging. This case describes a 55-year-old male with a history of chronic smoking and alcohol use who presented with persistent cough, hemoptysis, and breathlessness. Initial imaging suggested a possible lung neoplasm due to a soft-tissue lesion in the right middle lobe. However, flexible bronchoscopy revealed a nail embedded in granulation tissue within the bronchial tree. The foreign body was successfully retrieved, and histopathological examination confirmed benign inflammatory changes without evidence of malignancy. The patient experienced complete clinical recovery following the procedure. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for foreign body aspiration in adults presenting with unexplained respiratory symptoms, especially when conventional diagnostics suggest malignancy. Early bronchoscopy not only facilitates diagnosis but also offers immediate therapeutic intervention.