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A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a life-threatening condition caused by a blood clot that travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow and reducing oxygen levels in the body. Without timely diagnosis and treatment, a PE can lead to severe complications, including organ damage or death. Prompt medical intervention is critical, making a failure to diagnose a pulmonary embolism a serious form of medical malpractice.
A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, typically caused by a blood clot that originates in another part of the body, such as the legs, according to the Mayo Clinic. This condition can disrupt blood flow to the lungs, reducing oxygen levels and placing vital organs at risk. Early detection and treatment are critical, as a PE can quickly become life-threatening if left untreated.
The symptoms of a pulmonary embolism often appear suddenly and can vary in severity depending on the size of the blockage. Common signs include chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, shortness of breath, and a rapid or irregular heartbeat. Other symptoms may include dizziness, coughing (sometimes with blood), and swelling in the legs.
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Certain individuals face a higher risk of developing a pulmonary embolism, particularly those with pre-existing conditions or recent medical events. Post-surgical patients, individuals with deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and people who are immobile for extended periods are especially vulnerable per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Other risk factors include a history of blood clots, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions like cancer or heart disease.
Medical negligence is a leading factor in missed or delayed diagnoses of PEs, often resulting in severe or fatal outcomes. Diagnostic errors occur when healthcare providers fail to recognize symptoms, misinterpret test results, or delay necessary treatments. These lapses in care prevent timely interventions, place patients at significant risk of complications, and leave healthcare providers and facilities open to liability through personal injury claims.
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One of the most common diagnostic errors in pulmonary embolism cases is the misinterpretation of test results. For example, chest X-rays, blood tests, or D-dimer levels may be incorrectly read or dismissed as normal, despite clear signs of a PE. Another frequent error is failing to order critical imaging tests, such as CT pulmonary angiography, which can confirm the presence of a blood clot.
Delays in diagnosing a pulmonary embolism significantly increase the risk of severe complications. Without treatment, the blood clot can grow larger or travel to other parts of the body, exacerbating the condition. This can result in reduced oxygen levels, organ damage, and, in the most severe cases, cardiac arrest.
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When your healthcare provider’s failure to diagnose a pulmonary embolism has caused you or a loved one to suffer, you deserve justice and accountability. Your trial-proven medical malpractice attorney from Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys PC can investigate the details of your case and fight for the fair compensation you are entitled to. Contact us via our confidential contact form or by phone at (503) 226-6361 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation as soon as today.
At Paulson Coletti, a local firm based in Oregon, justice is our mission. As experienced trial attorneys, we fight for injury victims across Oregon and Washington, holding negligent parties accountable. With a proven track record in and out of the courtroom, we are dedicated to securing fair compensation for our clients. We take a client-centered approach, focusing on cases we believe in and delivering results that matter. No fees unless we win-because justice should never come with financial risk.
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This page has been written, edited, and fact-checked by our team of legal writers in accordance with our editorial guidelines. It has been approved by partners Jane Paulson and John Coletti—respected trial attorneys with decades of experience representing personal injury victims.
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