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Persistent tachypnea in children: keep pulmonary embolism in mind
C H van Ommen1, H Heyboer, J W Groothoff
1Department of Pediatric Hematology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Journal of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology
|December 18, 1998
Summary
Pediatric tachypnea can indicate serious conditions like pulmonary embolism. Early diagnosis and anticoagulant treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in children with venous thromboembolism risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Tachypnea in children commonly stems from respiratory or non-respiratory issues like fever or cardiac disease.
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) is infrequently recognized by pediatricians as a cause of tachypnea.
Observation:
- Three pediatric cases with persistent tachypnea are presented: post-orthopedic surgery, nephrotic syndrome, and Hirschsprung disease.
- Diagnosis of pulmonary embolism was delayed in these cases, with other causes of tachypnea addressed first.
Findings:
- Ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scanning indicated a high probability of pulmonary embolism in these patients.
- Initiation of anticoagulant therapy was commenced following diagnosis.
Implications:
- Pulmonary embolism should be considered in pediatric tachypnea, particularly with co-existing venous thromboembolism risk factors.
- Timely diagnosis and treatment of PE in children can prevent fatal outcomes and improve prognosis.