Once again, however, this is nonspecific and nondiagnostic and hence not too useful in making the diagnosis. VQ scan in PE - less than half of PE's have high probability scans. Once again, however, don't be falsely reassured by a negative study. Weak, however, in DX peripherally located emboli. MRA can also be useful.
Pulmonary angiography is the gold standard in making the diagnosis.
EKG shows ST segment depression on lateral wall leads. Physical - rr 28, distended neck veins, s4 on heart exam. CXR shows pulmonary congestion. Admitted with unstable angina but dyspnea and pain persisted despite nitrates, lasix and morphine. Unproven improved survival, reduction in recurrence of additional PE, or prevention of pulmonary hypertension.