Electrical Injury–Induced Pulmonary Embolism: A Case Report

Abstract

Electrical injuries are most commonly associated with cutaneous burns, arrhythmias, and neuromuscular damage; however, thromboembolic complications are rarely described. Low-voltage electrical exposure may trigger endothelial disruption, inflammation, and a hypercoagulable state that predisposes to in-situ pulmonary artery thrombosis. We present the case of a 34-year-old male who developed progressive dyspnoea, chest pain, and hypoxaemia several days after an occupational electrical injury. Diagnostic evaluation revealed elevated D-dimer levels, right ventricular dilatation with signs of pulmonary hypertension on echocardiography, and no evidence of deep venous thrombosis. CT pulmonary angiography identified acute segmental pulmonary embolism with pulmonary infarction. The patient was successfully treated with anticoagulation and supportive therapy, resulting in clinical improvement. This case highlights the potential for low-voltage electrical trauma to precipitate pulmonary vascular injury and emphasizes the importance of early imaging and prompt anticoagulant therapy. Further studies are necessary to better understand the pathophysiological mechanisms and incidence of thromboembolic events following electrical injury.