An unusual cause of hemoptysis: a leech
Case report published in Revue de pneumologie clinique (2012)
Abstract
We report an exceptional case of hemoptysis observed in a 71-year-old woman with an uneventful past history. After 48 hours of admission, the patient spontaneously expelled a leech from the nose. The parasite was examined in parasitology laboratory, which confirmed the hemiptera. The infestation of the airway by a leech is not uncommon; however, this diagnosis is rarely mentioned. The clinical symptoms are variable depending on location and the diagnosis should be made rapidly to prevent complications. Whatever the localization, removing the parasite is difficult. Evolution after treatment is rapidly favorable, with complete disappearance of symptoms.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Resumen
We report an exceptional case of hemoptysis observed in a 71-year-old woman with an uneventful past history.
Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia
This article presents a case report of a 71-year-old woman who experienced hemoptysis and spontaneously expelled a leech from her nose after 48 hours of hospitalization. The report highlights the variability of clinical symptoms associated with leech endoparasitism in the airways and notes that removal of the parasite is difficult but results in rapid recovery. While the American Society of Hirudotherapy focuses on the intentional medical use of leeches, this case provides clinical insights into the physiological effects of a leech attachment in the human nasal cavity. The primary limitation regarding ASH's domain is that this describes an accidental parasitic infestation rather than controlled, therapeutic hirudotherapy.
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Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: May 27, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: June 18, 2026