Hemoptysis in Children

Abstract

Hemoptysis is uncommon in the pediatric age group. There is little mentioned regarding this problem in either the pediatric or the otolaryngologic literature. A review of the past ten years' experience at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia identified 40 patients whose presenting symptoms included hemoptysis. Causes of the hemoptysis included tumor, infection, trauma, and foreign bodies, as well as a variety of other conditions. Based on these findings, a systematic approach to the diagnostic evaluation of the pediatric patient with hemoptysis has been developed. A thorough endoscopic examination of the upper aerodigestive tract is essential in most cases, and can have both diagnostic and therapeutic value. Particular attention is directed toward airway management in patients with massive hemorrhage. Close cooperation among the bronchoesophagologist, pediatrician, and anesthesiologist is mandatory for optimal care of the child with hemoptysis.