Thoracic foreign bodies in adults

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this pictorial essay is to illustrate a range of imaging manifestations of thoracic foreign bodies.

Methods and results: The essay includes documented intrathoracic foreign bodies introduced by inhalation, aspiration, penetrating trauma or ingestion. Imaging modalities include chest radiography and computed tomography (CT).

Conclusions: The majority of foreign bodies are seen on the plain chest radiograph. CT is helpful in demonstrating the presence of radiolucent foreign bodies and determining the exact location of the foreign bodies within the airways or lung parenchyma.