An old retained sharp intrapulmonary foreign body: a case report and literature review

Objective To investigate the clinical characteristics, diagnostic challenges, and management strategies of long-term retained sharp intrapulmonary foreign bodies and to improve clinicians’ understanding of this rare condition. Methods We report a case of a 54-year-old male patient presenting with hemoptysis. The diagnosis was established through imaging, multidisciplinary consultation, thoracoscopic surgery, and pathological examination. Additionally, the relevant literature was reviewed to summarize the clinical features of such cases. Results Chest CT revealed a dense shadow in the left lower lobe. Following multidisciplinary consultation, a diagnosis of “sharp intrapulmonary foreign body complicated by infection” was made. The patient underwent thoracoscopic left lower lobectomy, during which three nail-like foreign bodies, approximately 1.0–2.0 cm in length, were successfully removed. Postoperative pathology confirmed foreign body-induced pulmonary infection. Further history-taking suggested that the foreign bodies were likely the result of an accidental nail gun injury sustained in a workshop approximately 10 years prior. Conclusion Chronic intrapulmonary sharp foreign bodies may remain clinically silent for extended periods, posing diagnostic challenges. A high index of suspicion combined with detailed imaging is essential for diagnosis. Management should be individualized, with surgical intervention considered in symptomatic patients or when complications are likely. For completely asymptomatic patients with a stable foreign body position and no evidence of complications, conservative management with regular imaging follow-up may be a reasonable alternative.