Phen-Fen Causes Pulmonary Hypertension

ByMichael Talve, CEO

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Updated onOctober 23, 2017

Phen-Fen Causes Pulmonary Hypertension

This case involves a patient who developed pulmonary hypertension after using the drug Fenfluramine/phentermine for a one year period. The patient experienced chest pain and severe shortness of breath and was subsequently admitted to the hospital for a workup to rule out thromboembolic disease as a potential cause. The original CT-angiogram was read as having a low index of suspicion for thromboembolic disease. A short time after the patient underwent a perfusion scan and a pulmonary angiogram that revealed chronic embolic disease.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Can you determine from chest imaging whether it is likely that the patient had pulmonary hypertension at the time the embolism was diagnosed and if so how does pulmonary hypertension increase the risk of thromboembolic disease?

Expert Witness Response E-000888

inline imageThromboembolic disease leads to pulmonary hypertension. A CT angio is good at picking up an acute PE, but chronic disease is best picked up on a V/Q or angiogram. Enlargement of the pulmonary vessels on CT could be suggestive, but not diagnostic of pulmonary hypertension. Chronic thromboembolic disease causes pulmonary hypertension. Pulmonary hypertension can worsen thromboembolic disease, in my opinion, mostly indirectly and Phen-Fen has been known to cause Pulmonary Hypertension. To be clear a pulmonary angiogram is the gold standard method of diagnosing chronic thrombosis.

About the author

Michael Talve, CEO

Michael Talve, CEO

Michael Talve stands at the forefront of legal innovation as the CEO and Managing Director of Expert Institute. Under his leadership, the Expert Institute has established itself as a vital player in the legal technology arena, revolutionizing how lawyers connect with world-class experts and access advanced legal technology. Michael's role involves not only steering the company's strategic direction but also ensuring the delivery of unparalleled intelligence and cutting-edge solutions to legal professionals. His work at Expert Institute has been instrumental in enhancing the capabilities of attorneys in case preparation and execution, making a significant impact on the legal industry's approach to expert consultation and technological integration. Michael's vision and execution have positioned the Expert Institute as a key facilitator in the intersection of law and technology.

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