Make the Diagnosis: What’s Causing His Multiple Cardiac Symptoms?



A 68-year-old man was rushed to the ED with shortness of breath and hypotension after passing out at home. EMTs reported tachycardia and decreased heart sounds, and noted the patient’s neck vein was distended. The patient’s wife noted that he had been complaining of unusual fatigue the past few days. An ECG showed low QRS voltage.

Can you diagnose the patient?


446% A. Cardiac tamponade

35% B. Tension pneumothorax

90% C. Congestive heart failure

65% D. Pulmonary embolism





636 Votes