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Published on: March 3, 2023
[Pulmonary thromboembolism: clinical suspicion required]
M T García-Sanz1, C Pena-Alvarez, F J González-Barcala
1Servicio de Urgencias, Hospital do Salnés, Vilagarcía de Arousa, Pontevedra, Spain. teresa.garcia.sanz@sergas.es
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) affects 1-2 per 1,000 person-years. Recognizing VTE signs, including atypical pulmonary embolism (PE) symptoms, is crucial to reduce diagnostic delays and improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
- Vascular Medicine
Context:
- Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant global health concern with a high incidence rate.
- Pulmonary embolism (PE), a common manifestation of VTE, is frequently underdiagnosed due to nonspecific symptoms.
- Timely diagnosis of VTE and PE is critical for mitigating severe health consequences.
Purpose:
- To emphasize the importance of recognizing the diverse clinical presentations of VTE and PE.
- To advocate for broader clinical suspicion of PE beyond typical symptoms.
- To reduce diagnostic delays and improve patient outcomes associated with VTE.
Summary:
- VTE impacts 1-2 individuals per 1,000 person-years annually.
- Approximately one-third of symptomatic VTE cases involve pulmonary embolism (PE).
- PE presents a broad clinical spectrum, from asymptomatic cases to hemodynamic instability, necessitating consideration even with atypical or persistent respiratory symptoms.
Impact:
- Enhanced awareness of VTE and PE signs can expedite diagnosis.
- Reduced diagnostic delays are expected to lower VTE-related morbidity and mortality.
- Broadening diagnostic criteria for PE may lead to earlier intervention and improved patient survival.
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