Transthoracic echocardiographic demonstration of massive pulmonary thrombus caused by protein C deficiency

J Am Soc Echocardiogr. 2000 Jul;13(7):682-4. doi: 10.1067/mje.2000.104648.

Abstract

Few cases of pulmonary embolism detected by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) have been reported. We present a case of a patient affected by pulmonary embolism caused by protein C deficiency. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a thrombus in transit (ie, visualization of a thrombus within the pulmonary artery). A hypercoagulable state caused by deficiency of protein C is a rare cause of pulmonary thromboembolism. Our experience demonstrates a massive pulmonary thrombus resulting from such a deficiency. Transthoracic echocardiography should be considered as the first diagnostic method for patients with suspected pulmonary embolism.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Echocardiography / methods*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Protein C Deficiency / complications*
  • Protein C Deficiency / diagnostic imaging
  • Pulmonary Embolism / diagnostic imaging*
  • Pulmonary Embolism / etiology
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Thorax / diagnostic imaging