Background: Haemoptysis is an uncommon presenting symptom to the ENT clinic and ward, but has potentially sinister aetiology. This article aims to provide a systematic and evidence-based method of managing patients with haemoptysis.
Methods: The data in this article are based on a literature search performed using PubMed in August 2013. The keywords used included 'haemoptysis' in combination with 'otolaryngology', 'ENT', 'head & neck', 'diagnosis', 'management', 'investigations' and 'treatment'.
Results: The majority of published literature on the subject is level IV evidence. However, this can guide ENT specialists in assessing, investigating and managing presentations of haemoptysis.
Conclusion: Understanding the different causes of haemoptysis is important for the otolaryngologist. The main concern is the detection of a malignant lesion in the upper aerodigestive tract or tracheobronchial tree. A thorough history and systematic examination can aid diagnosis.
Keywords: Laryngeal Diseases; Otorhinolaryngologic Neoplasms; Pharyngeal Diseases; Tracheal Diseases.