# An unusual cause of fatal pulmonary embolism: A case report

## TL;DR

A rare case of a fatal pulmonary embolism caused by an adrenal tumor invading the inferior vena cava is reported.

## Contribution

This case highlights a rare and fatal complication of adrenal tumors extending into the IVC.

## Key findings

- Adrenal tumors invading the IVC can lead to life-threatening pulmonary embolism.
- Prompt imaging is crucial for diagnosing and managing such cases.
- The patient had a secondary adrenal tumor from pulmonary adenocarcinoma that caused a fatal tumor thrombus.

## Abstract

Adrenal tumours invading the inferior vena cava (IVC) are rare but can cause life-threatening complications such as pulmonary embolism. Early recognition, rapid diagnosis, and prompt imaging—including point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS), echocardiography, and advanced modalities like CT and PET-CT—are essential for optimal management. We present a patient with pulmonary adenocarcinoma and secondary adrenal tumour that extended into IVC and caused fatal tumour thrombus pulmonary embolism.