Recurrent Syncope as a Presentation of Pulmonary Embolism

Kulachanya Suwanwongse,Nehad Shabarek

doi:10.7759/cureus.6623

Abstract

The diagnosis of pulmonary embolism is challenging particularly when patients present with vague and/or non-specific symptoms and signs. Misdiagnosis of pulmonary embolism can lead to death or severe morbidity. We reported a case of a 60-year-old woman presented with recurrent syncope who later was diagnosed as submassive pulmonary embolism. This case report highlights the importance of early diagnosis and management of pulmonary embolism to prevent life-threatening sequels. Pulmonary embolism should be considered as a differential diagnosis of patients presenting at an emergency department with syncope.

Highlights

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is accountable for more than 100,000 deaths in the United States annually [1]
We presented a case of a patient who presented with recurrent syncope and later was found to have PE, to increase awareness of clinicians in including PE as a possible cause of recurrent syncope
After a four-day course of hospital treatment, she was discharged on an oral anticoagulant. Her shortness of breath was improved, and no recurrent syncope was reported after receiving anticoagulant

Summary

Introduction

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is accountable for more than 100,000 deaths in the United States annually [1]. She lost consciousness for a minute without convulsion or urinary incontinence She reported palpitation, dizziness, mild chest discomfort, and shortness of breath before syncope. Dizziness, mild chest discomfort, and shortness of breath before syncope She had a past medical history of hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and osteoporosis. She had multiple episodes of syncope (more than 10) accompanying with shortness of breath, mild chest discomfort, and palpitation in the past year. She was admitted to another hospital and stated that all investigations including electrocardiogram (EKG), 24hour telemetry, echocardiogram, and cardiac stress test were normal but did not have a chest computed tomography (CT). Her shortness of breath was improved, and no recurrent syncope was reported after receiving anticoagulant

Discussion

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Disclosures