[Intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism - Update on risk stratification and clinical management]

Intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) is usually defined as PE associated with right ventricular dysfunction (echocardiographic, radiological and/or biological) without hemodynamic instability. It is associated with significant mortality, and its management is challenging for the clinician due to its variable clinical presentation. In its recent recommendations, the European Society of Cardiology proposes to differentiate high intermediate risk from low intermediate risk, based on clinical, biological and radiological criteria. The management strategy differs for these two categories, particularly about the need for monitored surveillance. Beyond therapeutic anticoagulation, which remains the first-line treatment in intermediate-risk PE, other therapeutic modalities can be considered, and will be discussed.