DiseaseInjuryNutritionPoison
Special TopicSurgerySymptomsTest
2
4
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
Lungs
Lungs
Respiratory system
Respiratory system
Pulmonary embolus
Pulmonary embolus
OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Pulmonary embolus

Definition:
A pulmonary embolus is a blockage of an artery in the lungs by fat, air, clumped tumor cells, or a blood clot.

Alternative Names:
Venous thrombo-embolism; Lung blood clot; Fat embolus; Air embolus; Tumor embolus

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Pulmonary emboli are blockages of the blood vessels of the lungs (pulmonary vessels). Most often they are caused by blood clots from the veins, especially veins in the legs or in the pelvis (hips). More rarely, air bubbles, fat droplets, amniotic fluid, or clumps of parasites or tumor cells may obstruct the pulmonary vessels.

The most common cause of a pulmonary embolism is a blood clot in the veins of the legs, called a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Many vlear up on their own, though some may cause severe illness or even death.

Risk factors include the following:

  • Prolonged bed rest or inactivity (including long trips in planes, cars, or trains),
  • Oral contraceptive use
  • Surgery (especially pelvic surgery)
  • Childbirth
  • Massive trauma
  • Burns
  • Cancer
  • Stroke
  • Heart attack
  • Heart surgery
  • Fractures of the hips or femur

Persons with certain clotting disorders may also have a higher risk.



Review Date: 5/6/2003
Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com