Pulmonary Embolism

Exam Hooks

• Dyspnea + normal CXR → think PE
• Negative D-dimer → rules OUT
• Dead space → ventilated, not perfused
• Most common ECG → sinus tachycardia
• S1Q3T3 → classic, uncommon
• Shock → thrombolysis immediately
• LMWH preferred initial therapy
• CTPA → diagnostic test of choice
• PE → acute RV strain pattern
• IVC filter → if anticoagulation contraindicated