Acute Respiratory Distress and Cardiopulmonary Arrest in a 41-Year-Old Female with Massive Pulmonary Embolism: A Case Report

We present the case of a 41-year-old female who developed acute dyspnea and rapidly progressed to cardiopulmonary arrest. She had a history of chronic tobacco and oral contraceptive use. Computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) revealed bilateral massive pulmonary embolism. During resuscitation, thrombolytic therapy with alteplase led to return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). She was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), where she experienced progressive neurological deterioration and ultimately expired. This report underscores the importance of early recognition, prompt diagnosis, and the timely initiation of thrombolytic therapy in cases of high-risk pulmonary embolism.