Issue 12/2024
Perenovska, P.
Clinic of Pediatrics, UMBAL „Alexandrovska“ – Sofia
Foreign bodies in the respiratory tract are an actual and serious problem in pediatric otorhinolaryngology and pediatric pulmonology. A „foreign body“ is any object of exogenous or endogenous origin capable of partially or completely blocking the lumen of a part of the respiratory system. Aspiration of foreign bodies is one of the most common causes of persistent or recurrent respiratory symptoms in childhood. The clinical picture often resembles infections of the respiratory system or manifestations of bronchial asthma. In some cases, this is the cause of wrong or delayed diagnosis Foreign body aspiration is most common in the age up to 4-5 years, the % ratio of girls : boys is 1: 2. 65% of patients are between 6 months and 3 years of age . The most frequently aspirated foreign bodies are plants. Peanuts are approximately 5o% of all foreign bodies. Foreign bodies can be single or multiple. Prevention is in the proper upbringing and nutrition of the child. Teachers, parents and older students should be trained in first aid for „respiratory drama“.
Key words: foreigh body, aspiration, larynx, trachea, bronchi, complications, bronchoscopy
Address for correspondence:
Prof. Dr. P. Perenovska, MD
Pediatrics Clinic, Aleksandrovska UMBAL
1, “St. Georgi Sofiyski”, Str.
1431 Sofia