PULMONARY EMBOLISM MIMICKING ASTHMA EXACERBATION

Pulmonary Embolism poses a significant health threat. Pulmonary Embolism arises from the obstruction of pulmonary arteries, typically by blood clots originating from deep veins. Risk factors mirror those of deep vein thrombosis, encompassing genetic and acquired factors. Timely diagnosis is imperative due to substantial mortality and morbidity rates, with various diagnostic modalities employed. Treatment options include anticoagulants, thrombolytic, surgical embolectomy, and inferior vena cava filters. We present a case from our Emergency department, underscoring the importance of prompt diagnosis and intervention in managing PE. The case involved a 46-year-old male admitted who is known case of Asthma (on inhaled corticosteroids), who presented with dyspnoea, leading to the diagnosis of high-risk PE. Thrombolysis with Reteplase was initiated, highlighting the critical role of identifying the pulmonary embolism.