Comprehensive evaluation of CT pulmonary angiography for patients suspected of having pulmonary embolism

Recently, CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA), especially performed with multi-detector row CT, has become a key imaging modality for pulmonary embolism. However, CTPA that was performed under clinical suspicion of pulmonary embolism has been shown to lead to high prevalence of alternative diagnosis, up to 25.4%. A comprehensive evaluation of pulmonary and extrapulmonary abnormalities including cardiovascular lesions is critical in proper diagnosis and patient care. Radiologists should be familiar with the comprehensive interpretation of CTPA to facilitate differential diagnosis and further treatment decision.