The current practice in the diagnostic work-up of patients with hemoptysis of unknown etiology: an international survey.

Background: Hemoptysis is a challenging and potentially life-threatening medical condition. The most appropriate diagnostic work-up is debated and several diagnostic approaches are implemented worldwide.

Methods: An international, online survey was carried out to investigate the current practice of the diagnostic work-up of patients with hemoptysis of unknown etiology.

Results: Overall, 604 physicians responded to the survey. At baseline, chest X-ray was suggested as the first diagnostic investigation by 342 (56.6%) participants. Computed tomography (CT) was suggested in each patient with non- and life-threatening hemoptysis by 310 (51.3%) and 526 (87.1%) respondents, respectively. Contrast-enhanced CT is the currently preferred technique (333, 55.1%). In case of patchy ground glass opacities and negative CT, 287 (47.5%) and 222 (36.8%) participants, respectively, would always offer bronchoscopy. Otorhinolaryngological evaluation was mostly suggested in case of suspected upper airways bleeding before other investigations (212, 35.1%). A follow-up was recommended for idiopathic hemoptysis by the majority of the participants (316, 52.3%). A multidisciplinary assessment is deemed crucial for each patient with life-threatening hemoptysis (437, 72.4%).

Conclusions: Chest X-ray and contrast-enhanced CT are currently preferred as the first diagnostic investigations, regardless of hemoptysis severity. Bronchoscopy is suggested in case of negative radiological examination and when CT shows only ground glass opacities. Otorhinolaryngological evaluation is advised before any other investigations when upper airways bleeding is suspected. Patients with idiopathic hemoptysis are suggested to undergo a clinical follow-up and in case of life-threatening bleeding a multidisciplinary assessment is deemed crucial. Due to the heterogeneous approaches a consensus statement would be needed.