General
pe
What does pe mean?
A blockage of a pulmonary artery, usually by a blood clot that traveled from the legs, causing sudden shortness of breath and chest pain.
"Sudden SOB and tachycardia post-op — rule out PE."
Origin
Initialism of 'pulmonary embolism.'
Frequently asked questions
What does PE stand for in medicine?
Pulmonary embolism — a blockage in a lung artery, usually caused by a blood clot that traveled up from the legs.
Why is a PE dangerous?
It can suddenly cut off blood flow through the lungs, causing shortness of breath, chest pain, low oxygen, and in severe cases collapse or death.
Does PE always mean pulmonary embolism?
In this trauma and emergency context, yes — though 'PE' can also mean physical exam in other clinical settings.
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