Differential Diagnosis for Coughing Up Blood (Hemoptysis)

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Bronchitis: This is a common condition that can cause coughing up of bright red or dark blood due to inflammation of the bronchial tubes. The presence of bright red blood suggests a more acute and possibly infectious cause, while dark blood may indicate a chronic condition.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Pneumonia: An infection in the lungs that can cause hemoptysis, especially if it's severe or caused by certain bacteria.
• Pulmonary Embolism: A blood clot in the lungs that can cause sudden onset of bright red or dark hemoptysis, often accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A progressive lung disease that can cause chronic cough and occasional hemoptysis, especially in advanced stages.
• Lung Cancer: Although less common, lung cancer can cause hemoptysis, particularly if the tumor is located centrally and invades a major airway.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Tuberculosis (TB): A bacterial infection that can cause chronic hemoptysis, often accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, night sweats, and fever. Missing this diagnosis can lead to severe consequences, including transmission to others and development of drug-resistant strains.
• Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM): A rare condition where there's an abnormal connection between arteries and veins in the lungs, which can cause sudden and potentially life-threatening hemoptysis.
• Goodpasture Syndrome: A rare autoimmune disease that can cause hemoptysis, kidney failure, and other systemic symptoms. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.

Rare Diagnoses

• Mitral Stenosis: A heart condition where the mitral valve is narrowed, which can cause increased pressure in the lungs and lead to hemoptysis.
• Wegener's Granulomatosis (Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation in the blood vessels, including those in the lungs, leading to hemoptysis.
• Bronchiectasis: A condition where the airways are permanently enlarged, which can cause chronic cough and occasional hemoptysis, often due to recurrent infections.
• Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic disorder that can cause chronic respiratory infections and inflammation, potentially leading to hemoptysis, especially in advanced disease.