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Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension and Assessment of Right Ventricular Function in the Piglet
Published on: November 4, 2015
Pulmonary embolism mimicking left-ventricular hypertrophy on ECG
1Department of General Surgery, Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, Keighley, UK. alantanserseng@gmail.com
BMJ Case Reports
|December 15, 2012
Summary
Pulmonary embolism (PE) can manifest with unusual ECG findings like left-ventricular strain. This case highlights the importance of considering PE despite initial negative tests, especially with evolving symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Radiology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) changes are common in PE but typically involve right heart strain.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a primary risk factor for PE.
Observation:
- A 48-year-old man presented with calf symptoms, initially diagnosed with negative DVT via ultrasonography.
- He later returned with acute shortness of breath and pleuritic chest pain.
- CT pulmonary angiogram confirmed multiple pulmonary emboli.
Findings:
- The patient's ECG demonstrated left-ventricular strain, an atypical finding for PE.
- Despite initial negative DVT diagnosis, PE was confirmed.
- The patient experienced PE-related complications but ultimately recovered.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for atypical ECG manifestations in PE.
- It emphasizes the need for vigilant reassessment in patients with evolving symptoms, even after initial negative workups.
- Early anticoagulation and management are crucial for favorable outcomes in PE.
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