Hemoptysis in Children.
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Date
2010-03
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Abstract
Context: Pulmonary hemorrhage and hemoptysis are uncommon in childhood, and the frequency with which they are
encountered by the pediatrician depends largely on the special interests of the center to which the child is referred.
Diagnosis and management of hemoptysis in this age group requires knowledge and skill in the causes and management
of this infrequently occurring potentially life-threatening condition.
Evidence acquisition: We reviewed the causes and treatment options for hemoptysis in the pediatric patient using
Medline and Pubmed.
Results: A focused physical examination can lead to the diagnosis of hemoptysis in most of the cases. In children, lower
respiratory tract infection and foreign body aspiration are common causes. Chest radiographs often aid in diagnosis and
assist in using two complementary diagnostic procedures, fiberoptic bronchoscopy and high-resolution computed
tomography. The goals of management are threefold: bleeding cessation, aspiration prevention, and treatment of the
underlying cause. Mild hemoptysis often is caused by an infection that can be managed on an outpatient basis with close
monitoring. Massive hemoptysis may require additional therapeutic options such as therapeutic bronchoscopy,
angiography with embolization, and surgical intervention such as resection or revascularization.
Conclusions: Hemoptysis in the pediatric patient requires prompt and thorough evaluation and treatment. An efficient
systematic evaluation is imperative in identifying the underlying etiology and aggressive management is important
because of the potential severity of the problem. This clinical review highlights the various etiological factors, the
diagnostic and treatment strategies of hemoptysis in children.
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Keywords
Children, Hemoptysis, Management, Pulmonary hemorrhage, Review
Citation
Gaude G S. Hemoptysis in Children. Indian Pediatrics. 2010 Mar; 47(3): 245-254.