Denture misadventure: an unusual cause of hemoptysis

J Bronchology Interv Pulmonol. 2009 Jul;16(3):216-8. doi: 10.1097/LBR.0b013e3181aa1fe0.

Abstract

We report a case of a foreign body aspirated 9 years before presentation with hemoptysis. Chest radiographs failed to show 2 radiolucent denture palate fragments that ultimately were identified on computed tomography of the chest. After an unsuccessful flexible bronchoscopy, the foreign bodies were extracted using rigid bronchoscopy. Although rare, foreign body aspiration can be overlooked. Thus, it is important to maintain this diagnosis in the differential for patients with unexplained pulmonary symptoms.