This site is intended for healthcare professionals

Sign in
Go to /sign-in page

You can view 5 more pages before signing in

Clinical features of massive PE

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

The symptoms of massive pulmonary embolism include:

  • crushing chest pain
  • sudden circulatory collapse - patient becomes pale, sweaty and breathless
  • transient loss of consciousness
  • haemoptysis is uncommon

The signs of massive pulmonary embolism include:

  • central cyanosis
  • feeble pulse
  • tachycardia/bradycardia
  • hypotension
  • raised JVP
  • auscultation of heart reveals:
    • pulmonary hypertension (loud P2)
    • a third or fourth heart sound (gallup rhythm)

Ventricular fibrillation may ensue.

Related pages

Create an account to add page annotations

Create a free account

Add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation, such as a web address or phone number. This information will always be displayed when you visit this page

The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Connect

Copyright 2024 Oxbridge Solutions Limited, a subsidiary of OmniaMed Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Any distribution or duplication of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Oxbridge Solutions receives funding from advertising but maintains editorial independence.