[Asymptomatic pulmonary embolism and venous thrombosis of the lower limbs. Study with spiral x-ray computed tomography].
OBJECTIVE
Spiral Computed Tomography (CT) allows diagnosis and follow-up in pulmonary embolism (PE).


METHODS
We studied prospectively with spiral CT 21 patients to evaluate the frequency and the extent of asymptomatic PE in the patients with lower limbs venous thrombosis and no pulmonary symptomatology.


RESULTS
We observed a asymptomatic PE in 8/21 cases (34%). Extensive pulmonary thrombosis could be observed despite normal presentation. There was no association between the localization of PE topography and, the extent of the lower limb venous thrombosis extent.


CONCLUSIONS
This study shows about the capability for CT to evaluate PE severity and clinical underestimation PE occurrence.
Gouzien
P
P
Hôpital d'Instruction des Armées de Versailles, Paris.
Chabierski
M
M
Baccialone
J
J
Jeanbourquin
D
D
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000517:prevention & control; D012008:Recurrence; D013924:Thrombophlebitis / Q000150:complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods*
Embolie pulmonaire asymptomatique et thrombose veineuse des membres inférieurs. Etude par tomodensitométrie hélicoïdale.