Massive haemoptysis: the definition should be revised

Abstract

To the Editors: Massive haemoptysis represents one of the most challenging conditions in clinical practice. The condition is potentially lethal and, therefore, warrants clear understanding and precise definition. The definition of massive haemoptysis has not been completely agreed upon and varies widely in the literature. It is unfortunate that almost all previous definitions of massive haemoptysis relied only on the volume of expectorated blood. The use of expectorated blood volume alone to define massive haemoptysis is often misleading and confusing for three main reasons. First, no cut-off volume has been agreed upon in the literature. …