What does hemoptysis refer to?

Hemoptysis specifically refers to the expectoration of blood or blood-stained mucus from the respiratory tract, particularly from the lungs or bronchial tubes. This can occur due to a variety of medical conditions, such as infections, lung cancer, or pulmonary embolism. The term derives from the roots 'hema-' meaning blood, and '-ptysis', meaning to cough or spit. It is important to differentiate hemoptysis from other terms related to blood in bodily fluids, such as hematemesis (blood in vomit) or hematuria (blood in urine), as each term denotes a different medical issue and can guide the clinician toward appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, the definition aligns directly with the understanding that hemoptysis involves the coughing up of bloody sputum.