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Acquired continuous murmur associated with acute pulmonary thromboembolism
Chest
|October 1, 1976
Summary
A continuous murmur after pulmonary embolism suggests significant obstruction. This unusual but distinctive sign aids diagnosis when other findings are unclear.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Diagnostic Medicine
Background:
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) can present with varied clinical signs.
- Continuous murmurs are rarely associated with PE.
- Literature review and case presentations are crucial for understanding rare signs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present cases of acquired continuous murmur post-pulmonary embolism.
- To review literature for similar cases.
- To highlight the diagnostic significance of this murmur in PE.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two patients with post-PE continuous murmur.
- Systematic literature review of acquired continuous murmurs in PE.
- Clinical auscultation and diagnostic evaluation.
Main Results:
- Two new cases of continuous murmur following acute PE were identified.
- Eight prior cases were found in the literature review.
- The murmur was present in both acute and chronic PE, indicating significant obstruction.
Conclusions:
- An acquired continuous murmur is an unusual but distinctive sign in pulmonary embolism.
- This murmur suggests significant embolic obstruction.
- Its presence can prompt further diagnostic evaluation for PE, especially with nonspecific presentations.