Is Coughing Up Blood Related to Neck Tumors? Expert Insights - Oncology

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Is coughing up blood related to neck tumors?


Hello, Doctor: I am a 53-year-old female.
Last year, I had a soft mass in my nasopharynx, and when I coughed it up, it turned out to be a blood clot.
This lasted for three days.
I went to Chang Gung Memorial Hospital for a nasal ultrasound, but the doctor said nothing was found.
I then visited a pulmonologist for a bronchoscopy, but again, no abnormalities were detected.
Still feeling uneasy, I went to Taichung Veterans General Hospital to see an ENT specialist, but they could not determine the cause either.
I have been feeling like there is some phlegm above my larynx, which I cough up as purulent and odorless.
This symptom has persisted for almost a year.
However, today it recurred, and I coughed up some small blood clots and blood-tinged sputum.
Which specialty should I consult to investigate the cause of these symptoms? Additionally, I had surgery eleven years ago to remove a 2 cm tumor from my neck, and in the past year, new growths have appeared measuring 2.2 cm and 1.5 cm, along with some small nodular tumors.
Doctors have said they are benign.
Could the hemoptysis be related to the neck tumors? I hope the doctor can reply despite your busy schedule.
Thank you very much!

cherry, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/09/22

Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology


Ms.
Cherry: Your hemoptysis and purulent sputum may be indicative of bronchiectasis or tuberculosis.
Please consider visiting a pulmonologist for further evaluation.
Tuberculosis can present with cervical lymphadenopathy.
Lung cancer can also cause hemoptysis and may metastasize to the cervical lymph nodes; however, it is unlikely for lung cancer to remain so mild for a year.
Best of luck!

Reply Date: 2002/09/22

More Info


Coughing up blood, also known as hemoptysis, can be a concerning symptom and may arise from various underlying conditions. In your case, the history of a neck tumor and the recent episodes of coughing up blood warrant careful consideration.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that the presence of a neck tumor does not directly correlate with coughing up blood unless there is a specific connection, such as invasion of surrounding structures or metastasis. In your situation, the tumors you mentioned have been assessed as benign by your healthcare providers. Benign tumors typically do not cause symptoms like hemoptysis unless they exert pressure on nearby structures or cause irritation. Since your neck tumors have been evaluated and deemed non-cancerous, it is unlikely that they are the direct cause of your coughing up blood.

The most common sources of hemoptysis include issues related to the respiratory system, such as bronchitis, pneumonia, or more serious conditions like lung tumors or pulmonary embolism. Given that you have undergone multiple examinations, including nasal endoscopy and bronchoscopy, and no significant findings were reported, it suggests that major pulmonary diseases have been ruled out. However, the persistent nature of your symptoms, including the production of purulent sputum and blood clots, indicates that further investigation is warranted.

It is advisable to consult a pulmonologist, who specializes in lung-related issues. They can perform additional tests, such as a CT scan of the chest, to evaluate the lung parenchyma and airways more thoroughly. Additionally, they may consider conducting a sputum analysis or bronchoscopy again if necessary, to identify any potential infections or other abnormalities that could explain the hemoptysis.

In the meantime, it is essential to manage your symptoms and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Avoid irritants such as smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke, and consider using a humidifier to alleviate dryness in the air, which can exacerbate coughing. Staying hydrated and consuming a balanced diet can also support your overall health and immune function.

Regarding your concern about the neck tumors, while they have been classified as benign, it is crucial to continue monitoring them through regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider. If you notice any changes in size, shape, or associated symptoms, such as pain or difficulty swallowing, you should report these changes promptly.

In summary, while the neck tumors are unlikely to be the cause of your coughing up blood, it is essential to pursue further evaluation with a pulmonologist to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms. Regular monitoring of your neck tumors is also advisable to ensure they remain stable. Your health and well-being are paramount, and seeking appropriate medical care will help address your concerns effectively.

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