Pulmonary embolism physical examination: Difference between revisions
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==Appearance of the Patient== | ==Appearance of the Patient== | ||
The patient may appear anxious because of difficulty in breathing. More severe cases may be associated with [[cyanosis]] (bluish discoloration, usually of lips and fingers). | The patient may appear anxious because of difficulty in breathing. More severe cases may be associated with [[cyanosis]] (bluish discoloration, usually of lips and fingers). | ||
==Vital Signs== | ==Vital Signs== | ||
Patient may have: | Patient may have: |
Revision as of 18:31, 24 April 2012
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editors-in-Chief: Ujjwal Rastogi, MBBS [2]
Overview
The decision to do medical imaging is usually based on clinical grounds, i.e. the medical history, symptoms and findings on physical examination, followed by an assessment of clinical probability.
Appearance of the Patient
The patient may appear anxious because of difficulty in breathing. More severe cases may be associated with cyanosis (bluish discoloration, usually of lips and fingers).
Vital Signs
Patient may have:
Without immediate intervention it might lead to shock or even collapse. About 15% of all cases of sudden death are attributable to PE.
Patients with Submassive PE present with signs of RV dysfunctions, which are as follows:
- Distended neck veins.
- Parasternal heave.
- Prominent second heart sound (P2).
- Murmur of tricuspid regurgitation.
However, these signs have poor sensitivity.
Thorough assessment should be made for the presence of a deep vein thrombosis.