Pulmonary arteriovenous malformation as a cause of severe exertional dyspnoea.
A 48-year-old woman presented to the respiratory clinic with progressive exertional dyspnoea and an abnormal chest radiograph. Examination revealed mucosal telangiectasia and pulmonary angiography confirmed the presence of two pulmonary arterial venous malformations (PAVM). After therapeutic coil embolisation, dyspnoea was markedly improved, and exercise tolerance increased. Comparison of exercise test responses before and after this therapeutic intervention provides new insights into the physiological mechanisms of exertional dyspnoea in this condition.
Bain
D J
DJ
Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
Webb
K A
KA
O'Donnell
D E
DE
D001165:Arteriovenous Malformations / Q000150:complications*; D004417:Dyspnea / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D005541:Forced Expiratory Volume; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D005082:Physical Exertion; D011651:Pulmonary Artery / Q000002:abnormalities*; D014797:Vital Capacity