What is one etiology of Pulmonary Embolism (PE)?

The passage of any material capable of getting lodged in a blood vessel is a fundamental etiology of pulmonary embolism (PE). PE occurs when a substance, such as a blood clot (thrombus), fat, air, or other debris, travels through the bloodstream and becomes trapped in the pulmonary arteries. This blockage prevents adequate blood flow to the lung tissue, leading to reduced oxygenation and potentially life-threatening complications.

Understanding the etiology of PE is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. Factors that lead to the formation of these emboli can include prolonged immobility, certain medical conditions, or long flights that increase the likelihood of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). When a thrombus forms in a deep vein, it can dislodge and migrate to the lungs, causing a PE.

The other choices, while they might present different medical issues, do not directly relate to the etiology of pulmonary embolism. Increased cough from lung congestion is a symptom that may occur with various respiratory conditions but does not cause PE. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe condition that affects lung function but is primarily a result of other injuries or infections rather than a direct cause of embolism. Severe asthma attacks might exacerbate respiratory issues but are not