AN INTRODUCTION
Multiple Subsegmental Pulmonary Emboli (MSSPE) is a type of pulmonary embolism (PE), which is a blood clot in the lungs. MSSPE occurs when there are multiple clots, each in a different part of the lung. These clots can block blood flow and cause damage to the lungs. MSSPE is often difficult to diagnose because the symptoms can be subtle.
The most common symptom is shortness of breath, but other symptoms may include coughing, chest pain, and fatigue. MSSPE can be life-threatening, so it’s important to seek medical help if you think you or someone you know may have this condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are keys to a good outcome. If you have any concerns, talk to your doctor.
WHAT IS THE MAJOR CAUSE OF MULTIPLE SUBSEGMENTAL PULMONARY EMBOLI (MSSPE)?
There are a number of possible causes of Multiple Subsegmental Pulmonary Emboli Without Acute Cor Pulmonale.
· One possibility is a blood clotting disorder, which can cause clots to form in the blood vessels and then travel to the lungs.
· Another possibility is damage to the veins in the legs, which can allow clots to form and then travel to the lungs.
. Yet another possibility is a blockage in the arteries leading to the lungs, which can cause clots to develop and then travel to the lungs.
· Finally, some people may be born with abnormalities in their lung vessels that predispose them to developing multiple subsegmental pulmonary emboli without acute cor pulmonale.
While the exact cause of this condition may vary from person to person, understanding the potential causes can help doctors provide the best possible treatment.
THE UNDERLYING SYMPTOMS
There are a variety of major clinical symptoms of Multiple Subsegmental Pulmonary Emboli Without Acute Cor Pulmonale.
They are:
· Pulmonary hypertension- This is an increase in the blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries. It can cause the right side of the heart to enlarge and fail.
· Sudden death- In some cases, multiple subsegmental pulmonary emboli can lead to sudden death. This is most likely due to a large clot that blocks a large area of the lung.
· Dyspnea- This is shortness of breath. It is caused by decreased oxygen levels in the blood and can be aggravated by activity.
· Chest pain- This is usually caused by increased blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries. It can be a sharp, stabbing pain or a dull ache.
· Tachypnea- This is an increase in the breathing rate. It is caused by the body’s attempt to get more oxygen into the blood.
Symptoms of multiple subsegmental pulmonary emboli without acute cor pulmonale can vary from person to person and range from mild to severe. In some cases, they may even be life-threatening. If you think you may have multiple subsegmental pulmonary emboli, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential for preventing complications and ensuring a good outcome.
HOW IS MULTIPLE SUBSEGMENTAL PULMONARY EMBOLI WITHOUT ACUTE COR PULMONALE DIAGNOSED?
Multiple subsegmental pulmonary emboli (MSPE) are usually asymptomatic and are only discovered when a patient undergoes a CT scan or MRI for some unrelated reason. When they are symptomatic, the most common symptom is shortness of breath.
Diagnosis begins with a chest X-ray, which may show evidence of MSPE. A CT angiogram is the best test for diagnosing MSPE, as it can visualize the obstruction of blood flow more clearly than an X-ray.
If a CT angiogram is not available, then a ventilation/perfusion scan (V/Q scan) can be used.
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POSSIBLE TREATMENT
Treatment for Multiple Subsegmental Pulmonary Emboli Without Acute Cor Pulmonale typically includes anticoagulation therapy. This can be done with either an IVC filter or oral anticoagulant medications. If the patient has a history of DVT, then they will likely be placed on a therapeutic dose of WARFARIN [COUMADIN]. If the patient does not have a history of DVT, then they may be placed on a lower dose of WARFARIN or given another type of oral anticoagulant.
The decision on which medication to use and the dosage will be made by the treating physician based on the individual patient’s situation. In some cases, thrombolytic therapy may also be used in addition to anticoagulation therapy. Thrombolytic therapy is typically only used in cases where there is a high risk of complications from the pulmonary emboli, such as if the patient has an underlying heart condition.
Patients who are put on blood thinning medications such as WARFARIN [COUMADIN], are asked to monitor their PT/INR LEVEL on a regular basis. PATIENT SELF TESTING, makes this easy and affordable. Patients can easily perform their blood tests with the help of PT/INR METERS at home and get an accurate reading in seconds.