Nonthrombotic Pulmonary Artery Embolism: Imaging Findings and Review of the Literature

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2017 Mar;208(3):505-516. doi: 10.2214/AJR.16.17326. Epub 2016 Nov 8.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this article is to emphasize the imaging findings encountered in the setting of nonthrombotic pulmonary embolism.

Conclusion: Nonthrombotic pulmonary embolism refers to a spectrum of clinical and radiologic disorders caused by embolization of the pulmonary artery vasculature by various cell types, microorganism, and foreign bodies. Awareness of the imaging and clinical features of the nonthrombotic pulmonary embolism may facilitate prompt diagnosis.

Keywords: amniotic fluid embolism; bullet embolism; cement embolism; fat embolism; hydatid cyst embolism; nonthrombotic pulmonary embolism; tumor embolism.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Computed Tomography Angiography / methods*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Pulmonary Embolism / diagnostic imaging*
  • Thrombosis / diagnostic imaging