Bronchoconstriction in the Presence of Pulmonary Embolism

Abstract

In a group of seven patients with pulmonary embolism, evidence of bronchoconstriction was found. Heparin appeared to relieve partially the observed airway obstruction. A possible common mechanism for the initiation of intravascular coagulation and the production of bronchoconstriction was considered. When other causes can be eliminated, the detection of bronchoconstriction may serve as a useful index for the early recognition of pulmonary emboli.