Chest CT Appearances
Acute Pulmonary Embolism (PE) CT Findings
- Intraluminal filling defect within a vessel surrounding by contrast material (“polo mint” or “railway track” appearance)
- Arterial occlusion that does not enhance the entire lumen
- Peripheral intraluminal filling defect that forms acute angles with the arterial wall
- Common findings also include pulmonary infarct and pleural effusions
Other Information About Acute Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
Etiology:
- Family history
- Inactiveness
- Trauma
- Cancer/malignancy
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Cigarette use
- Oral contraceptive use
Epidemiology:
- More common in males
- More common after 5th decade of life
Presentation:
- Chest pain
- Cough
- Dyspnea
- Hemoptysis
- Syncope
- Incidental finding
Prognosis:
- High mortality rate
- Timely intervention reduces mortality rate significantly
Related Pearls: Pulmonary Embolism
Related Lectures:
Missed Diagnosis in Abdominal CT: Strategies and Pitfalls - Part 2
Missed Diagnosis in Body CT: Pearls and Pitfalls 2023 - Part 3