Blood in sputum (Hemoptysis)- Diagnosis and Tests

Diagnosis

Hemoptysis diagnosis consists of the following tests:

• Sputum test: The patient is asked to cough out the sputum into a container. Generally from a deep cough and in the morning. Patients are advised to have plenty of fluids to loosen up the secretions. At least 2 milliliters of sputum is required by the laboratory as an adequate sample.

• Chest X-ray: shows us changes in the lung parenchyma, associated complications ~ signs of pulmonary infections, or heart failure.

• CT Scan of the chest – is carried out to study more minute changes in the lung parenchyma like air trapping, emphysema, bronchiectasis, signs of infection, lung abscess, and others. It also gives a better picture of muscle, other organs, bones, and fat.

• Lung function test – Spirometer devices are used to assess the pulmonary functioning in form of how long the lung can hold, take in, and move out the air (less air in – restrictive type less air out- obstructive type of lung disease). It is also helpful in the assessment of the ongoing treatment and in grading the seriousness of the disease.

• With the help of Peak flow monitors, we can measure the speed at which the air is being blown out by the lungs.

• Pulse oximetry and arterial blood gas –assessment is done to measure the amount of oxygen in the blood.

• Complete blood count (CBC)

• Bronchoscopy

• Pulmonary angiography to assess blood flow In the lungs, to see the site of bleed.

• Lung VQ scan to evaluate blood flow and airflow to the lungs.

Read more: Symptoms and Causes of Hemoptysis

Read more: Blood in sputum (Hemoptysis) Treatment