Ultrasound interest in the management of acute dyspnea in emergency setting

Abstract

Dyspnea is a common cause of admission to the emergency department. There is a relationship between proper etiological treatment and morbidity and mortality. The etiological diagnosis is often clinically difficult, especially in elderly patients. Lung ultrasonography provides an excellent analysis of pulmonary lesions. Transthoracic echocardiography often provides insight into the mechanism. Venous compression ultrasound of the lower limbs has a role in the pulmonary embolism diagnosis. The articulation of these tools with the clinical examination improves the clinical relevance of the physician confronted with an acute dyspnea patient. Ultrasound may also have a role in helping to triage dyspnea patients. A good knowledge of the different ultrasound syndromes and their integration in the diagnostic reasoning by all practitioners is necessary to improve the management of these patients.