Bilateral pulmonary emboli presenting as platypnea-orthodeoxia

Abstract

We are reporting a case of 78 yrs old female presented with platypnea orthodeoxia, likely caused by bilateral proximal pulmonary emboli. Despite appropriate treatment, she died of respiratory arrest. It is uncommon to have clinical evaluation of platypnea and appropriate documentation of orthodeoxia. Platypnea-orthodeoxia can be a rare but presenting feature of massive pulmonary emboli. Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion, in at risk individuals with refractory hypoxia, prompt evaluation of which may lead to improve outcome.