The evaluation of hemoptysis begins with a history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with hemoptysis may include:

• Clubbing of the nails
• Signs of chronic lung disease:
• Barrel-shaped chest
• Decreased lung sounds

Testing is needed to determine the underlying cause of hemoptysis.

Tests that may be used to evaluate hemoptysis include:

• Complete blood count
• Kidney profile
• Serum electrolytes
• Pulse oximetry
• Chest x-ray
• Bronchoscopy
• Sputum cytology:
• Testing cells from lung for cancer
• Serum telomerase level
• CT scan of the chest
• MRI scan of the chest
• Bone scan
• Mediastinoscopy
• Thoracoscopy
• PET scanning