External beam radiotherapy: a treatment option for massive haemoptysis caused by mycetoma

Five patients with life threatening haemoptysis secondary to a mycetoma were treated with external beam radiotherapy (EBRT). External beam radiotherapy of 3.5 Gy was given once a week continuing for one fraction after the haemoptysis stopped. Three patients required 7 Gy, one required 10.5 Gy and the fifth patient required 14 Gy before the haemoptysis had completely stopped. Irradiation was successful in achieving haemostasis with no side effects being observed after treatment in all five patients. Radiation therapy is an effective modality of treatment for life-threatening haemoptysis due to a mycetoma with no significant acute or late side effects.