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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffCoughing up blood can be caused by a variety of lung conditions. Coughing up blood can take different forms: The blood may be bright red or pink and frothy, or it may be mixed with mucus. Also known as hemoptysis (he-MOP-tih-sis), coughing up blood, even in small amounts, can be alarming. However, producing a little blood-tinged sputum isn't uncommon and usually isn't serious. Call 911 or seek emergency care if you're coughing up blood in large quantities or coughing up blood frequently.
- Hemoptysis. In: Kahan S, et al. In a Page Signs and Symptoms. 2nd ed. Philadelphia Pa.: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2009:144.
- Larsen K, et al. Hemoptysis. In: Paulman P, et al. Taylor's 10-Minute Diagnosis Manual. 2nd ed. Philadelphia Pa.: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2007:155.
- Bidwell J, et al. Hemoptysis: Diagnosis and management. American Family Physician. 2005;72:1253.
- Weinberger S. Etiology and evaluation of hemoptysis in adults. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Nov. 24, 2009.
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