A Rare Complication: Cardiac Arrest and Pulmonary Embolism in Polyarteritis Nodosa

Abstract

Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a rare systemic vasculitis affecting small and medium-sized arteries. While PAN primarily involves arterial vessels, its association with venous thromboembolic events such as pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and their consequences such as cardiac arrest are infrequently reported. Understanding the clinical presentation and management of PAN complicated by PE, and cardiac arrest is crucial for optimizing patient care. We present a case of a patient with a history of polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) who presented with a cardiac arrest complicated by pulmonary embolism (PE). Through meticulous analysis and multidisciplinary intervention, the patient’s condition was stabilized, shedding light on the complexities of managing such rare and life-threatening complications within the context of PAN. This case underscores the importance of prompt recognition, comprehensive evaluation, and targeted therapeutic interventions in navigating the intricate interplay of vasculitis, thromboembolic events, and cardiac complications in patients with Polyarteritis nodosa.