Is thrombolytic therapy effective for pulmonary embolism?
Pulmonary embolism is a disorder that is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Right-sided heart failure and recurrent pulmonary embolism are the main causes of death associated with pulmonary embolism in the first two weeks after the embolic event. Thrombolysis is a potentially lifesaving therapy when used in conjunction with standard anticoagulation. However, it has significant side effects and must therefore be used with caution. Indications for thrombolysis are not well defined and are thus controversial. The only current absolute indication is massive pulmonary embolism with hypotension. Other potential indications include right heart dysfunction, recurrent pulmonary embolism and the prevention of pulmonary hypertension. However, no evidence exists to show benefit of thrombolytic therapy over standard anticoagulation therapy for recurrent pulmonary embolism, mortality or chronic complications. Bleeding is the most common complication of thrombolysis and may be fatal.
Almoosa
Khalid
K
Division of Pulmonary/Critical Care, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Ohio 45267-0564, USA. kalmoosa@yahoo.com
D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D055502:Secondary Prevention; D015912:Thrombolytic Therapy; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D018497:Ventricular Dysfunction, Right / Q000150:complications
D000925:Anticoagulants; D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents