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Pulmonary embolism presenting as seizures
1Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Chest
|October 7, 1997
Summary
Massive pulmonary embolism (PE) can cause generalized seizures due to low oxygen and blood flow to the brain. Consider PE in diagnosing new-onset seizures.
Area of Science:
- Medical Case Reports
- Neurology
- Cardiopulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious condition affecting lung blood flow.
- Generalized seizures are typically associated with neurological disorders.
- The link between PE and new-onset seizures is not widely recognized.
Observation:
- Two patients with massive PE presented with generalized seizures.
- This presentation is unusual and warrants further investigation.
Findings:
- Pathophysiologic mechanisms linking PE to seizures include respiratory acidosis, hypoxemia, and cerebral hypoperfusion.
- Decreased cardiac output in massive PE can lead to reduced brain perfusion.
Implications:
- Pulmonary embolism should be included in the differential diagnosis for new-onset seizures.
- Early recognition of PE in seizure patients can improve outcomes.
- This association highlights the complex interplay between cardiovascular and neurological systems.