Mild-to-moderate hemoptysis: a diagnostic and clinical challenge

Mild-to-moderate hemoptysis is defined as the expectoration of blood or blood-streaked sputum originating from the lower respiratory tract, in volumes that do not immediately threaten the patient's life. Nevertheless, it is a very common respiratory symptom and the list of underlying respiratory or non-respiratory diseases is vast, ranging from the most worrying to more easily manageable etiologies. In this narrative review, we have analyzed the most recent recommendations inferred from the literature, in terms of diagnostic as well as therapeutic approach.