A woman shows symptoms of massive pulmonary thromboembolism. The gross appearance of liver autopsy is shown. Which of the following statement best characterizes the patient’s condition?
The condition described in the question involves a pulmonary thromboembolism and a specific appearance of the liver observed during an autopsy. Pulmonary thromboembolism occurs when a blood clot, often originating in the deep veins of the legs or other parts, travels to the pulmonary arteries, leading to obstructed blood flow in the lungs. Symptoms can include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, and rapid heart rate. The gross appearance of the liver suggests the presence of metastatic tumors, which is consistent with certain underlying conditions known to spread to the liver.
Condition
Mechanism
Pulmonary thromboembolism
Caused by emboli blocking pulmonary arteries
Colonic adenocarcinoma with metastasis
A primary colonic tumor spreads to distant organs, including the liver
The correct answer to the question is "Colonic adenocarcinoma with metastasis." This choice correctly identifies a common cause of metastatic liver lesions seen during an autopsy, particularly when associated with thromboembolic events. Colorectal cancer is well-known for spreading through the bloodstream to the liver, creating secondary metastatic tumors. These can lead to altered liver function, and their detection during an autopsy often suggests this primary diagnosis.
