Pulmonary Embolism Basics
pulmonary embolism is defined as this
blockage of a pulmonary artery
Classic triad causing thrombosis
Virchow’s triad
Most common symptom of PE
Dyspnea
Lab elevated in thrombosis
D-dimer
First-line treatment for PE
anticoagulation (heparin)
Most PE originate from this location
the legs (DVT)
PE increases this in the lungs
Dead Space
Sharp chest pain with breathing is called this
pleuritic chest pain
Gold standard imaging (historically)
pulmonary angiography
Medications that break down clots
thrombolytics
This condition is the main cause of PE
deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Blood flow blockage leads to this tissue condition
Ischemia
Massive PE may cause this blood pressure change
hypotension
Most common imaging test used today
CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA)
Device that traps emboli in vena cava
IVC filter
PE is the ___ most common cause of cardiovascular death
Third
50–75% occlusion causes this response
pulmonary vasoconstriction
Central PE may present with this type of chest pain
anginal pain
This scan is used when contrast cannot be given
V/Q scan
Why are thrombolytics used in massive PE?
to dissolve clot and restore perfusion
Large embolus lodged at bifurcation is called this
saddle embolus
PE increases afterload on which heart chamber
right ventricle
PE symptoms are often described as this
nonspecific
ABG finding commonly seen in PE
low PaCO₂ (respiratory alkalosis)
A patient has sudden dyspnea, tachypnea, and low CO₂—likely diagnosis
pulmonary embolism