Chronic pulmonary embolus

Case contributed by Craig Hacking
Diagnosis probable

Presentation

3 days of SOB and chest tightness

Patient Data

Age: 50 years
Gender: Female
ct

Peripheral non-occlusive filling defect within the left basal lateral segmental pulmonary artery. The peripheral distribution of the filling defect within the vessel signifies chronic PE rather than acute embolism. No signs of RV strain.

Case Discussion

The location of the filling defect in a pulmonary artery gives a clue to the acuity of embolus:

  • acute PE tends to be central whereas;
  • chronic PE tends to be eccentric or peripheral, adherent to the wall of the vessel

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.