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Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension and Assessment of Right Ventricular Function in the Piglet
Published on: November 4, 2015
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Case report: systolic murmur associated with pulmonary embolism
Cain M Dudek1, Kelly R McCracken2, B James Connolly2
1Temple University, 1801 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA. caindudek@gmail.com.
International Journal of Emergency Medicine
|November 8, 2019
Summary
A novel posterior systolic murmur may indicate pulmonary embolism (PE), enabling faster diagnosis and treatment. This cost-effective sign is crucial for early intervention, reducing patient morbidity and mortality.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) diagnosis and treatment are critical for reducing morbidity and mortality.
- Early intervention in PE cases is vital.
- Novel diagnostic signs that do not increase cost are valuable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case study linking a new physical exam finding to pulmonary embolism.
- To highlight a potentially cost-effective early sign for PE detection.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a young female with syncope and shortness of breath.
- Physical examination revealing a posterior systolic murmur.
- Emergency department workup confirming bilateral massive pulmonary emboli.
Main Results:
- A patient with no prior valvular disease presented with syncope and shortness of breath.
- A posterior systolic murmur was detected on physical exam.
- Bilateral massive pulmonary emboli were diagnosed.
Conclusions:
- A new flow murmur heard in atypical locations may be an early indicator of pulmonary embolism.
- This sign can aid in the rapid detection and diagnosis of PE.
- This finding is particularly important for rural hospitals with limited advanced imaging resources.
