Hemoptysis

Hemoptysis
Other namesHaemoptysis, coughing up of blood
Lower left: Inflammation of the bronchus can bring about bloody mucus.
Pronunciation
SpecialtyPulmonology
SymptomsSpitting blood or bloody sputum
ComplicationsPulmonary aspiration, choking
Causesbronchitis, lung cancer, certain infections
Differential diagnosisepistaxis (combined with post-nasal drip)

Hemoptysis or haemoptysis is the discharge of blood or blood-stained mucus through the mouth coming from the bronchi, larynx, trachea, or lungs. It does not necessarily involve coughing. In other words, it is the airway bleeding. This can occur with lung cancer, infections such as tuberculosis, bronchitis, or pneumonia, and certain cardiovascular conditions. Hemoptysis is considered massive at 300 mL (11 imp fl oz; 10 US fl oz). In such cases, there are always severe injuries. The primary danger comes from choking, rather than blood loss.[1]

  1. ^ Sabatine MS (2014). Pocket medicine (Fifth ed.). [S.l.]: Aspen Publishers, Inc. ISBN 978-1451193787.