Pulmonary Embolism

ECG of a patiënt with pulmonary embolism

Another example of an ECG of a patiënt with pulmonary embolism. Note the tachycardia and right axis.

In case of a pulmonary embolism several clinical features may be present:[1]

• Sinustachycardia
• Stress on the right ventricle:
  • right atrial dilatation
  • Heartaxis is to the right
  • Right bundle branch block (RBBB)
• Deep S in I
• Q and negative T in III
• T wave inversion anterior [2]

Pulmonary embolism cannot solely be diagnosed using an ECG, but it may be helpful.

References

1. Rodger M, Makropoulos D, Turek M, Quevillon J, Raymond F, Rasuli P, and Wells PS. Diagnostic value of the electrocardiogram in suspected pulmonary embolism. Am J Cardiol. 2000 Oct 1;86(7):807-9, A10. DOI:10.1016/s0002-9149(00)01090-0 |