Massive pulmonary embolism complicating streptokinase treatment for deep vein thrombosis.
A fatal massive pulmonary embolus developed in a patient treated with streptokinase for acute deep vein thrombosis. This fatal complication occurred despite a careful selection of the patient and the presence of a lytic state. Embolization of a fragmented thrombus or/and attenuation of the lytic state leading to fresh embolization is/are the possible mechanism(s). Although rare, massive pulmonary embolus must be considered to be a major risk of thrombolytic therapy for deep venous thrombosis.
Sassoon
C S
CS
Department of Medicine, Veterans Administration Medical Center, Long Beach, Calif.
Te
T T
TT
Light
R W
RW
D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000401:mortality / Q000473:pathology; D013300:Streptokinase / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D013924:Thrombophlebitis / Q000188:drug therapy*
D013300:Streptokinase