Acute Medicine | Respiratory | Investigation and management of rarer causes of haemoptysis

Investigation and Management of Rarer Causes of Haemoptysis
Session Overview
Description
This session discusses the investigation of rarer causes of haemoptysis. The results of investigations are shown and the subsequent management of these conditions is discussed.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this session you will be able to:

• List the initial investigations required in the investigation of haemoptysis
• Identify investigation findings that suggest rarer causes of haemoptysis
• Recognise the need for involvement of speciality teams
• Manage rarer causes of haemoptysis

Haemoptysis has a wide differential diagnosis. Important information about the possible underlying causes can be gained from the patient’s history and physical examination.

The commonest causes of haemoptysis are diseases affecting the airways such as bronchitis, and bronchiectasis. Less commonly tumour in the airways may present with haemoptysis. In regions where tuberculosis (TB) is endemic, haemoptysis is a common presenting feature.

In rarer cases haemoptysis is a part of systemic vasculitides. Systemic symptoms such as a rash, arthralgia, haematuria or previous uveitis may indicate a vasculitic process.

The results of preliminary investigations (haematology and chest x-rays), may also indicate rarer causes, and further or specialised investigations may be required before a final diagnosis can be made.