Massive, Life-Threatening Hemoptysis in a Case of Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Abstract

Tuberculosis still remains as a significant health burden in the developing world despite medical and technological advances. Massive hemoptysis in pulmonary tuberculosis is a life-threatening complication where patient with pulmonary tuberculosis expectorate a large volume of blood due to bronchial artery or a branch of pulmonary artery erosion due to cavitary infiltration caused by tuberculosis infection. Massive hemoptysis can lead to high morbidity and mortality rates due to hemodynamic instability and respiratory compromise. Clinical evaluation and locating the exact site of bleeding can be difficult especially in a patient with massive hemoptysis and disseminated lung disease. Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography Thorax and bronchoscopy remain the methods of choice for lateralization of the disease. Bronchial artery embolization has become cornerstone in treating patients with massive hemoptysis.