Pulmonary embolism

Pulmonary embolism. A typical wedge-shaped subpleural consolidation marked by homogeneous echogenicity and echotexture (→); amputation of vascularity, which stands for the so-called vascular sign, is seen in CD (←). Linear transducer.

A pulmonary embolism with pulmonary infarction is seen in LUS as a round (in early lesions) or wedge-shaped subpleural consolidation with vascular sign visible near the bottom margin or within the lesion in CD or PD. Also, a small layer of anechogenic fluid is often seen immediately above the pulmonary infarction lesion. In LUS, pulmonary embolism is considered:

- certain, when there are at least two typical wedge-shaped or round lesions, with their base resting against the pleura;
- probable, when there is a single typical subpleural lesion with accompanying fluid in the pleural cavity;
- possible, when there are non-specific subpleural lesions with the diameter of < 5 mm, or a regionally seen pleurisy with effusion.