Differential Diagnosis for Hemoptysis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Bronchitis: This is often the most common cause of hemoptysis, especially in smokers or those with a history of respiratory infections. The inflammation and irritation of the bronchial tubes can lead to bleeding.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Pneumonia: Bacterial, viral, or fungal pneumonia can cause hemoptysis due to the infection and inflammation of the lung tissue.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): COPD can cause hemoptysis due to the chronic inflammation and damage to the lung tissue.
- Lung cancer: Although less common, lung cancer can cause hemoptysis, especially in smokers or those with a history of exposure to carcinogens.
- Pulmonary embolism: A pulmonary embolism can cause hemoptysis, especially if it is large and causes infarction of the lung tissue.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Pulmonary artery aneurysm or pseudoaneurysm: These are rare but potentially life-threatening conditions that can cause massive hemoptysis.
- Tuberculosis: Although less common in some areas, tuberculosis can cause hemoptysis and is important to consider, especially in high-risk populations.
- Goodpasture's syndrome: This is a rare autoimmune disease that can cause hemoptysis and renal failure.
- Mitral stenosis: This is a heart condition that can cause hemoptysis due to the increased pressure in the pulmonary veins.
- Rare diagnoses
- Bronchiectasis: This is a condition characterized by the dilation of the bronchial tubes, which can cause hemoptysis.
- Cystic fibrosis: This is a genetic disorder that can cause hemoptysis due to the chronic inflammation and damage to the lung tissue.
- Arteriovenous malformation (AVM): This is a rare condition where there is an abnormal connection between the arteries and veins, which can cause hemoptysis.
- Vasculitis: This is a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the blood vessels, which can cause hemoptysis.