Introduction: Lung cancer is currently one of the most common malignancies in the world. Early detection is an important prognostic factor. Unfortunately, initial symptoms may be vague and a substantial proportion of cases present with the effects of metastases.

We describe a case of known lung malignancy presenting acutely with bronchial obstruction. A piece of tumor from the left main bronchus (occluded by primary tumor) had been aspirated into the previously patent right main bronchus, leading to acute respiratory distress. The obstruction was cleared before intervention by expectoration.