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[Acute lung embolism: a prospective study from May 1992, to May 2002]
J L Alonso Martínez1, M Echegaray Agara, M A Urbieta Echezarreta
1Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital de Navarra, Pamplona. jlalonsom@cfnavarra.es
Revista Clinica Espanola
|October 1, 2004
Summary
Acute lung thromboembolism is a common condition in older adults, with a prevalence of 4.25%. Despite diagnostic delays, hospital mortality remains low, highlighting the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment for this frequent condition.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
Context:
- Acute lung thromboembolism (ALT) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality.
- Understanding its prevalence, clinical presentation, and outcomes is crucial for effective patient management.
- This study investigates ALT in a tertiary hospital setting over a decade.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence of ALT.
- To describe the clinical profile, predisposing factors, and hospital evolution of ALT.
- To compare clinical features based on vessel size and presence of deep vein thrombosis.
Summary:
- A 10-year prospective study diagnosed 106 cases of ALT (4.25% prevalence) in elderly patients (mean age 72).
- Immobility and cancer were primary risk factors. Hospital mortality was 3.77%.
- Central ALT correlated with worse gas exchange; 35% of cases lacked demonstrable deep vein thrombosis, showing increased hypotension.
Impact:
- ALT is a frequent condition in the elderly with a generally favorable prognosis if diagnosed and treated promptly.
- Specific symptoms like cough and pleural rub may warrant further diagnostic consideration.
- The absence of a demonstrable emboli source in a third of cases emphasizes the need for high clinical suspicion.