Unusual presentation of a massive pulmonary embolism

J Tehran Heart Cent. 2011 Winter;6(1):41-4. Epub 2011 Feb 28.

Abstract

A pulmonary embolus clogs the artery that provides blood supply to a part of the lung. The embolus not only prevents the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide but also decreases blood supply to the lung tissue itself, potentially causing the tissue to die (infarct). A 52-year-old man presented with syncope and anxiety. He had sinus tachycardia and dilated right ventricle with trabeculations. A differential diagnosis of arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia and pulmonary embolism prompted CT angiography, which revealed a bilateral massive pulmonary embolism. The patient was treated successfully with thrombolytic drugs.

Keywords: Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia; Pulmonary embolism; Syncope; Tachycardia; ventricular.

Publication types

  • Case Reports