Update on the diagnosis and management of pulmonary embolism.
Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common and often fatal disease. In the US, an estimated 40-53 people per 100,000 are diagnosed with PE annually and approximately 60,000 die from the disease. Diagnosis is difficult because symptoms are non-specific; however, a quick and accurate diagnosis is critical because, with appropriate therapy, the risk of recurrent (and potentially fatal) PE can be greatly reduced. Recent publication of prediction rules and improved non-invasive diagnostic tools have simplified diagnostic algorithms for PE. The efficacy of the standard treatment for PE, initial administration of continuous i.v. unfractionated heparin overlapped with long-term oral anticoagulation, is well established. However, newer treatment options such as low-molecular-weight heparins and the pentasaccharides may offer similar efficacy with improved convenience.
Garcia
David
D
Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA. davgarcia@salud.unm.edu
Ageno
Walter
W
Libby
Edward
E
D000465:Algorithms; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D011249:Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D015912:Thrombolytic Therapy / Q000379:methods
D000925:Anticoagulants