Physical sign in acute pulmonary embolism – MCQ – Answer

Physical sign in acute pulmonary embolism – MCQ – Answer

Which of the following physical sign is unlikely in acute pulmonary embolism? – Correct answer: a) Left parasternal heave

Left parasternal heave is due to right ventricular hypertrophy and takes time to develop. It can be a finding in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. Moreover, right ventricular failure ensues when there is an increase in pulmonary artery systolic pressure to around 50 mm Hg in acute stage, while it can reach above systemic levels in chronic situation.

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