What are the referral criteria for a patient with haemoptysis to a respiratory specialist?

Referral criteria for haemoptysis to a respiratory specialist:

• Any patient presenting with haemoptysis should be considered for referral to exclude serious underlying causes, including carcinoma of the bronchus.
• Patients aged 40 and over presenting with haemoptysis should be offered an urgent chest X-ray to be done within 2 weeks to investigate possible lung cancer or other serious pathology.
• Referral for specialist advice is appropriate to exclude carcinoma of the bronchus and to confirm diagnosis and optimise therapy.
• Referral may be made to a respiratory physician or to a trained member of the COPD or respiratory team depending on local arrangements and clinical judgement.

These criteria ensure timely investigation and management of haemoptysis, particularly to rule out malignancy or other serious respiratory conditions.

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