Abstract

Eric Njoku, Charles Okorafor and Fred Arimah

Hemoptysis is the expectoration of blood from the respiratory tract. It occurs in many clinical entities. In our primary care setting, treatment of many patients with hemoptysis begins with the administration of anti- tuberculosis drugs without investigation. The aim of this study is to review the relevant literature on the pathophysiology, causes and management of hemoptysis; with emphasis on differential diagnosis and appropriate management. Literature review was carried out on the pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, patient evaluation and management of hemoptysis using computerized search including Google, PubMed and African Journal Online. Additional information was obtained by cross referencing and using texts and journals in the medical libraries of Federal Medical Centre and University of Nigeria Enugu. Most of the literatures were from developed countries. Comprehensive management plan was lacking in many text books. However, we were able to explore the main differential diagnoses of hemoptysis and discuss their management within the limits of our literature search. Hemoptysis is a common presenting symptom in our chest clinics. Though pulmonary Tuberculosis tops the list of differential diagnosis of hemoptysis in most developing countries; we advice that all cases of hemoptysis should be well investigated as accurate diagnoses will ensure correct treatment.