skip to main content

Foreign body aspiration — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateRespiratoryForeign body aspirationRACP Paediatrics

A 20-month-old develops sudden coughing while eating peanuts. Two hours later he has persistent cough, reduced air entry on the right and focal monophonic wheeze; chest radiograph shows right-sided hyperinflation. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Foreign body aspiration

A choking episode followed by unilateral wheeze and hyperinflation is foreign body aspiration until proven otherwise. Viral wheeze is usually diffuse and not linked to a sudden choking event. The teaching point is that a normal radiograph would not exclude aspiration, and bronchoscopy is needed when suspicion is high.

Reference: RCH Clinical Practice Guidelines: Inhaled foreign bodies; Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG)