Pulmonary embolism An update

Pulmonary embolism is a common condition and can be the source of significant morbidity and mortality.

This article reviews the approach to the diagnostic assessment and management of patients with suspected pulmonary embolism.

Various clinical decision rules and algorithms are available to assist in the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism, and the Wells score and Pulmonary Embolism Rule-out Criteria rule are presented in this article. The utility of D-dimer testing and the role of imaging to confirm the diagnosis are also discussed. Treatment options once pulmonary embolism is confirmed are presented.