Sanatorium Medical Journal
Approach to Hemoptysis: Etiology, Diagnosis, and Management
Hemoptysis is defined as the expectoration of blood originating from the pulmonary or bronchial vasculature into the airway. It may range from mild blood-streaked sputum to life-threatening massive bleeding that demands urgent intervention. Although minor hemoptysis is far more common, massive hemoptysis carries a high risk of mortality primarily due to asphyxiation rather than exsanguination. Identifying the underlying etiology is often complex, as causes vary by geography and comorbid conditions. In low and middl …