Pulmonary Embolism Flashcards
1
Q
How does most Pulmonary embolism cases arrive?
A
From DVT
2
Q
What is the pathology of Pulmonary embolism?
A
Embolism causes a sudden occlusion to an artery
Increases the dead space of the lungs
Increase in minute ventilation - to keep PaCO2 constant
3
Q
What happens to surfactant production distal to the embolism?
A
Reduction in surfactant
Leads to Atelectasis - collapse of the lung, as alveoli deflated
4
Q
What are the clinical features of Pulmonary embolism?
A
Dyspnoea Pleuritic chest pain Haemoptysis Apprehension Tachypnoea
5
Q
How is Pulmonary Embolism diagnosed?
A
V/Q scanning - initial test Deep Venography - diagnostic standard Pulmonary angiography - diagnostic standard D dimer Wedge shaped infarction on CXR
6
Q
What is the treatment for PE?
A
Anticoagulation - LMWH
For recurrent PE - use a Vena cava filter
7
Q
What blood test can be done for PE?
A
D dimer
