ObjectiveTo investigate the treatment and prevention of respiratory tract leech.MethodsClinical data of 50 patients with respiratory tract leech treated in our department were analyzed retrospectively combined with literature review.ResultsOf all the 50 patients, anemia occurred in 21, nervous system symptoms appeared in 23, 17 children got developmental delay, and 11 elderly patients showed varying degrees of weight loss. Removal of leech and corresponding symptomatic treatment were adopted. Followup for a period of 3 to 6 months showed that all the patients were completely recovered, except 7 got significant improvement of fear. No complications such as local hemorrhage and ulceration occurred.ConclusionsThe confirmed diagnosis of respiratory tract leech depends on history, characteristics of clinical symptoms, endoscopic examinations of nose, throat, trachea and bronchia. Detailed history taking during clinical reception, timely and correct treatment are essential for prevention of misdiagnosis and therapeutic error which might lead to serious consequences.