Syncope: The forgotten sign of pulmonary embolism

Abstract

The diagnosis of pulmonary embolism continues to be elusive, primarily because of its notorious vagaries of symptoms and signs. Syncope as an initial presentation of pulmonary embolism occurs in 10% of patients. It is as a presenting symptom of pulmonary embolism is difficult to diagnose. Pulmonary embolism should be considered in the differential diagnosis of every syncopal event that present to the Emergency department. We present two cases of pulmonary embolism included syncope and review the pathophysiology and diagnostic considerations in these settings.