Pulmonary Emboli
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Overview
Plain-Language Overview
A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in one of the arteries in the lungs, usually caused by a blood clot that travels from the legs or other parts of the body. This condition affects the respiratory system and can reduce blood flow to lung tissue, leading to difficulty breathing and chest pain. The blockage can cause damage to the lungs and strain the heart, which may result in serious complications. Common symptoms include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, and sometimes coughing up blood. It is a medical emergency because it can rapidly worsen and affect oxygen delivery to the body.
Clinical Definition
Pulmonary embolism (PE) is the obstruction of the pulmonary arterial system by a thrombus, most commonly originating from a deep vein thrombosis in the lower extremities. The pathophysiology involves embolic occlusion of pulmonary arteries, leading to increased pulmonary vascular resistance, right ventricular strain, and impaired gas exchange. Major risk factors include venous stasis, hypercoagulability, and endothelial injury (Virchow's triad). Clinically, PE presents with dyspnea, pleuritic chest pain, tachypnea, and hypoxemia. It is a critical diagnosis due to its potential to cause hemodynamic instability and sudden death if untreated. Diagnosis and management require prompt recognition and intervention.