Pulmonary Embolism Flashcards
1
Q
What are the causes of a pulmonary embolism?
A
DVT - most common Infective endocarditis Right venticle thrombus Fat, air or amniotic fluid embolism Neoplastic cells Parasites
2
Q
How does a DVT lead to a PE?
A
Part of the clot in the leg breaks off and passes into the right heart. From here it passes into the pulmonary circulation
3
Q
What are the risk factors for a pulmonary embolism?
A
Recent surgery - especially pelvic/abdominal or hip/knee replacement) Thrombophilia Leg fracture Prolonged immobility Malignancy Pregnancy, post-partum, OCP or HRT Past medical history of PE
4
Q
What are the clinical features of a pulmonary embolism?
A
Pyrexia Pleuritc/non-pleuritc chest pain Cyanosis Acute breathlessness/tachypnoea Cough Tachycardia Haemoptysis Hypotension Dizziness/syncope Raised JVP Pleural rub Pleural effusion
