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Updated: Jun 22, 2026

A Porcine Model of Acute Autologous Pulmonary Embolism
Published on: September 6, 2024
[Diagnostic schelf: a case of pulmonary embolism with ST elevation]
H Brahic1, R Ravan, R Eschalier
1Service de cardiologie, centre hospitalier de Vichy, boulevard Denière, 03200 Vichy, France.
Pulmonary embolism can mimic myocardial infarction on ECGs, leading to misdiagnosis. Echocardiogram identified the correct diagnosis, enabling effective fibrinolytic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) changes in pulmonary embolism (PE) can mimic acute myocardial infarction (MI).
- This diagnostic challenge can lead to invasive procedures and delayed treatment for the actual condition.
Observation:
- A patient presented with ECG findings suggestive of myocardial infarction.
- Initial diagnostic workup focused on coronary artery disease, including coronary angiography.
Findings:
- Coronary angiography revealed no significant blockages, ruling out myocardial infarction.
- Echocardiogram demonstrated findings consistent with pulmonary embolism.
- The patient received fibrinolytic treatment based on the echocardiogram results.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering pulmonary embolism in patients with MI-like ECG changes.
- Demonstrates the utility of echocardiography in diagnosing challenging cases of PE.
- Emphasizes the potential for misdiagnosis and the need for comprehensive diagnostic approaches.
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Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE)
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