Hemoptysis and breath-holding diving.
OBJECTIVE
We aim to present one case with hemoptysis. Pulmonary barotrauma of descent (lung squeeze) has been described in breath-hold divers when the lung volume becomes smaller than the residual volume, with the effect of increased ambient pressure.


METHODS
We report one case of hemoptysis in a breath-hold diver who dove for exercise of military action.


RESULTS
The patient's hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were 7.3 g/dL and 26%, respectively. The computed tomography of thorax obtained 5 hours after the diving event revealed images suggestive of hemoptysis. The diagnosis of hemoptysis was made based on the diver's history and computed tomography findings. All of the divers performed voluntary diaphragmatic contractions at the beginning of their ascent, while their mouths and noses were closed.


CONCLUSIONS
We suggest that the negative intrathoracic pressure attributable to the forced attempt to breathe along with voluntary diaphragmatic contractions contributes to hemoptysis, since it may damage the pulmonary capillaries.
Kalemoglu
Murat
M
Department of Emergency Surgery, Gülhane Military Medical Academy, Haydarpasa Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.
Keskin
Ozcan
O
D000328:Adult; D001469:Barotrauma / Q000503:physiopathology*; D004242:Diving / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006469:Hemoptysis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008889:Military Personnel; D012119:Respiration; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014421:Turkey