Which echocardiographic finding suggests acute pulmonary embolism?

The finding of right ventricular dilation and dysfunction is a critical echocardiographic indication of acute pulmonary embolism. When a pulmonary embolism occurs, it can lead to obstruction in the pulmonary artery, resulting in increased pressure in the right ventricle as it struggles to pump blood through the blocked vessels. This increased workload can cause dilation of the right ventricle, as well as its dysfunction.

Echocardiography can visualize these changes effectively, showing the right ventricle as enlarged or altered in its ability to contract normally. This dilation reflects the acute pressure overload and is often accompanied by interventricular septal flattening and reduced right ventricular ejection fraction, which further supports the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism.

The other findings, such as ventricular hypertrophy, pericardial effusion, and left atrial enlargement, are associated with different cardiac conditions or chronic issues rather than directly indicating acute pulmonary embolism. These other conditions, while clinically significant, do not reflect the acute hemodynamic changes that are typically seen in cases of pulmonary embolism.