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Pulmonary embolism: An abdominal pain masquerader
Jenna Gantner1, Jotham E Keffeler, Charlotte Derr
1Department of Emergency, Tampa General Hospital, Tampa, Florida, USA.
Journal of Emergencies, Trauma, and Shock
|December 17, 2013
Summary
Pulmonary embolism (PE) can present as abdominal pain, delaying diagnosis and treatment. This case highlights the importance of considering PE in patients with atypical abdominal symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious condition often presenting with respiratory symptoms.
- Abdominal pain is an atypical presentation for PE, potentially leading to diagnostic delays.
Observation:
- A 48-year-old male presented with severe right upper quadrant abdominal pain.
- Initial ultrasound and chest X-ray findings were misleading, suggesting biliary issues.
Findings:
- Despite atypical symptoms, a high index of suspicion led to further testing.
- Diagnostic imaging confirmed a large central pulmonary embolism in the right main pulmonary artery.
Implications:
- This case underscores the risks of pattern recognition in diagnosing abdominal pain.
- Understanding pathophysiologic links between PE and abdominal pain is crucial for timely diagnosis.
- Chest radiography plays a role in PE diagnosis, even with atypical presentations.
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