Pulmonary Embolism

Summary of Pulmonary Embolism The mortality of diagnosed and treated PE is 7%. Many more people die from undiagnosed PE. Most patients present with dyspnea +/- chest pain. The main risk factors is the development of DVT from immobility; surgery, pregnancy, chronic disease, increasing age. There are two forms of imaging for PE: CT pulmonary angiography and V/Q scanning. Other investigations include bloods taking a d-dimer test. General treatment includes IV heparin followed by oral warfarin therapy. For massive (serious) PE thrombolytic therapy is initiated.