ISSN 2326-7283
African Journal of Internal Medicine ISSN 2326-7283 Vol. 7 (1), pp. 501-504, January, 2019. © International Scholars Journals
Review
Hemoptysis: A symptom not well explored in the primary care setting in the developing world
Eric Njoku1, Charles Okorafor2 and Fred Arimah3
1Department of Internal Medicine, Federal Medical Centre Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
2Department of Otorrhinolaryngology, Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
3Department of Internal Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia. Abia State, Nigeria.
Accepted 04 May, 2018
Abstract
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.
Key words: Hemoptysis, differential diagnosis, investigations, management.