Pulmonary embolism

• Facts:
  95% originate from DVTs
  MC source are proximal deep leg veins
• History / PE:
  Dyspnea
  Pleuritic chest pain
  Tachypnea
  Tachycardia
• Diagnosis:
  EKG shows S1 Q3 T3 , sinus tach
  Helical/spiral CT with contrast
  V/Q perfusion scan (if contrast contraindicated)
  D-dimer test (negative predictive values > 95%)
  Venous U/S of LE
  Increased A-a gradient (on ABG)
  "Wedge shaped" infarct on CXR
• Treatment:
  Heparin
• Associated With:
  Virchow's triad
• Differential Diagnosis:
  Pneumothorax
• Risk Factors:
  Immobilization
  Recent surgery
  Malignancy