Foreign-body aspiration in adults.

Although a common problem in children, foreign-body aspiration is unusual in adults and is often overlooked as a cause of airway obstruction. Four cases of aspirated foreign bodies in adults are reported, outlining a range of clinical presentations and emphasizing the need to be aware of this condition in adults, especially in rural areas. Bones of small mammals or birds may be inhaled and patients frequently present after an asymptomatic interval of varying length, leading to delay in diagnosis. Prompt treatment using rigid bronchoscopy leads to rapid clinical and radiologic resolution of the problem.