Differential Diagnosis for Hemoptysis

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Chronic Bronchitis: This is often the most common cause of hemoptysis, especially in smokers. The chronic inflammation and irritation of the bronchial tubes can lead to bleeding.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Pneumonia: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can cause inflammation of the lung tissue, leading to hemoptysis.
• Bronchiectasis: A condition characterized by damaged, dilated airways, which can cause chronic cough and hemoptysis.
• Lung Cancer: Tumors in the lung can erode into blood vessels, causing bleeding.
• Tuberculosis: A bacterial infection that can cause inflammation and bleeding in the lungs.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Pulmonary Embolism: Although less common, a pulmonary embolism can cause sudden, severe hemoptysis and is life-threatening if not promptly treated.
• Aortic Aneurysm or Aortobronchial Fistula: Rare but potentially fatal conditions where an aneurysm or fistula causes bleeding into the airways.
• Goodpasture Syndrome: A rare autoimmune disease that can cause bleeding in the lungs and kidneys.
• Wegener's Granulomatosis (Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and bleeding in the lungs.

Rare Diagnoses

• Mitral Stenosis: A heart condition that can cause increased pressure in the pulmonary veins, leading to hemoptysis.
• Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation: A rare congenital condition where abnormal connections between arteries and veins can cause bleeding.
• Catamenial Hemoptysis: A rare condition associated with menstruation, where endometrial tissue grows in the lungs and causes bleeding.
• Trauma: Direct injury to the lungs or airways can cause hemoptysis, although this would typically be associated with a clear history of trauma.