Septic pulmonary embolism associated with periodontal disease: reports of two cases and review of the literature

Chest. 2002 Feb;121(2):652-4. doi: 10.1378/chest.121.2.652.

Abstract

We report two cases of septic pulmonary embolism associated with periodontitis. Chest CT revealed multiple nodular shadows with features characteristic of septic pulmonary embolism in both patients. Both patients had toothache, fever, and chest pain, and showed findings of periodontitis at initial presentation. Antimicrobial agents combined with dental surgery were successful in treatment. While septic pulmonary embolism from the lesions of periodontitis appears to be rare, periodontitis remains important in the differential diagnosis of septic pulmonary embolism.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Focal Infection, Dental*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Periodontitis / complications*
  • Pulmonary Embolism / etiology*