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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
05:52
Prehospital Thrombolysis: A Manual from Berlin
Published on: November 26, 2013
Thrombolysis for concomitant acute stroke and pulmonary embolism
Louise E Allport1, Ken S Butcher
1The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Summary
This study details the successful management of a patient with simultaneous stroke and pulmonary embolism. Treatment with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and heparin led to improved neurological and respiratory function.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Simultaneous occurrence of cortical stroke and pulmonary embolism is rare.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for patient outcomes.
Observation:
- A patient presented with acute neurological deficits and respiratory distress.
- Symptoms of both conditions were present for 2 hours prior to assessment.
Findings:
- Intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) was administered for stroke.
- Intravenous unfractionated heparin was initiated 24 hours post-tPA.
- The patient demonstrated significant improvement in both neurological and respiratory status after thrombolysis.
Implications:
- This case highlights the feasibility of thrombolytic therapy in select patients with concomitant stroke and pulmonary embolism.
- Careful consideration of anticoagulation timing is essential to balance risks and benefits.
- Further research into optimal management strategies for these complex cases is warranted.
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