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Foreign Body Aspiration — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateRespiratoryForeign Body AspirationRACP Paediatrics

A 10-month-old infant is brought to the emergency department with acute onset stridor after playing unsupervised with small toys. He has a sudden onset of cough and unilateral decreased air entry on the right side. What is the most appropriate initial investigation?

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Correct answer: E — Inspiratory and expiratory chest X-rays

In a child with suspected foreign body aspiration, inspiratory and expiratory chest radiographs (or lateral decubitus films in younger children) may demonstrate air trapping on the affected side. If clinical suspicion is high, rigid bronchoscopy is both diagnostic and therapeutic. However, CXR is the appropriate initial investigation. If the CXR is normal but suspicion remains high, bronchoscopy should still be performed.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2024 – Clinical Practice Guidelines: Foreign Body Aspiration