title: Evidenced-based management of haemoptysis by otolaryngologists.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Haemoptysis is an uncommon presenting symptom to the ENT clinic and ward, but has potentially sinister aetiology. This article aims to provide a systematic and evidence-based method of managing patients with haemoptysis.
  
  
  METHODS
  The data in this article are based on a literature search performed using PubMed in August 2013. The keywords used included 'haemoptysis' in combination with 'otolaryngology', 'ENT', 'head & neck', 'diagnosis', 'management', 'investigations' and 'treatment'.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The majority of published literature on the subject is level IV evidence. However, this can guide ENT specialists in assessing, investigating and managing presentations of haemoptysis.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Understanding the different causes of haemoptysis is important for the otolaryngologist. The main concern is the detection of a malignant lesion in the upper aerodigestive tract or tracheobronchial tree. A thorough history and systematic examination can aid diagnosis.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery,Aberdeen Royal Infirmary,Scotland,UK.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Bannister
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery,Aberdeen Royal Infirmary,Scotland,UK.
authors.forename: K W
authors.initials: KW
authors.lastname: Ah-See
mesh_terms: D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine / Q000379:methods*; D006469:Hemoptysis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D010036:Otolaryngology; D010039:Otorhinolaryngologic Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy
keywords: Laryngeal Diseases; Otorhinolaryngologic Neoplasms; Pharyngeal Diseases; Tracheal Diseases