The Lost Crown: A Case of an Aspirated Tooth Crown Causing Post-Obstructive Pneumonia

Abstract

Non-asphyxiating foreign body aspiration (FBA) is an uncommon occurrence in adults, but it can lead to serious complications and sequelae. Diagnosis of FBA can be difficult as symptoms can mimic other respiratory diseases and the majority of foreign bodies are not visible on chest X-ray. We report a case of an older male who presented with respiratory failure secondary to pneumonia after aspiration of a dental crown. The patient improved after antibiotic therapy and removal of the foreign body by bronchoscopy. Our case is unusual because the diagnosis was delayed after the aspiration event because the patient was asymptomatic before presenting with pneumonia two years later. This case emphasizes the importance of early recognition and management of possible aspiration events to prevent life-threatening sequelae.