Respiratory bleeding - Hemoptysis

Discharge of blood through the mouth originating on the respiratory system; it must be differentiated from blood coming from the digestive system. It is considered to be severe when the volume is greater than 150 - 600ml / 5 to 20fl.oz. or has clinical consequences.

There are multiple causes among which the following stand out: infections, cancer, cardiovascular disease and trauma.

It appears with a cough together with blood. This is bright red and frothy as it is coughed up with air.

The diagnosis is clinical, by observing the blood coming out together with the cough. A detailed medical history and physical examination are required, as well as blood tests, chest X-ray and electrocardiogram. Additional imaging tests will assist in determining the point of bleeding and, occasionally may become part of the treatment: bronchoscopy, CT-scan and, in some patients, bronchial arteriogram.

The treatment must ensure the clinical stability through fluid therapy, ensuring adequate amounts of coagulation factors and blood transfusion. Depending on the cause, treatment may include bronchial endoscopy, arteriogram with arterial embolization or surgery.