Value of multiplanar reconstruction in multi-slice computed tomography for the detection of foreign body in the pulmonary artery: a case report

Abstract

Multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) is the primary method for the detection and visualization of foreign bodies in the pulmonary artery because it provides high sensitivity and accuracy. It is very difficult to diagnose a patient with a non-iatrogenic pulmonary artery foreign body who does not have a history of a penetrating trauma. This case report describes a 36-year-old male that presented with coughing and haemoptysis. Based on conventional coronal and cross-sectional CT, the foreign body was misdiagnosed as pulmonary tuberculosis and pulmonary artery thrombosis. During treatment of the bronchial artery embolization and anti-tuberculosis therapy, the patient continued to experience haemoptysis. After further analysis of the pulmonary artery CT angiography images and curved multiplane reconstruction, an approximately 6-cm long toothpick was identified in the pulmonary artery with an unclear entry route. After surgery to remove the toothpick, symptoms of coughing and haemoptysis were resolved. This current case demonstrated that multiplane reconstruction in MSCT can improve the detection and visualization of pulmonary artery foreign bodies, which can aid in the diagnosis of pulmonary artery diseases of unknown cause.