Incidence of pulmonary embolism and impact on mortality in patients with malignant melanoma

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Shereen Rennebaum1, Stefan W Schneider2, Thomas Henzler1

  • 1Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Institute of Clinical Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Mannheim, Germany.

Clinical Imaging
|January 6, 2022
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is common in malignant melanoma (MM) patients, often asymptomatic. PE indicates advanced disease and poorer prognosis in MM.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Cardiology
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a frequent complication in patients with malignant melanoma (MM).
  • Understanding the incidence and impact of PE in MM is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence of PE in MM patients.
  • To assess the clinical characteristics and mortality associated with PE in MM.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 381 MM patients who underwent contrast-enhanced computed tomography.
  • Evaluation of imaging parameters (PE location, right heart dysfunction) and clinical data (D-Dimer, tumor stage, mortality).

Main Results:

  • PE was detected in 6% of MM patients, with 74% found incidentally.
  • PE correlated significantly with elevated D-Dimers, right ventricular dysfunction, advanced tumor stage, metastases, and increased mortality.
  • Central PE was associated with higher mortality than peripheral PE.

Conclusions:

  • PE in MM patients frequently occurs without symptoms.
  • The presence of PE indicates advanced malignant melanoma and a poorer prognosis.
Keywords:
Clinical symptomsComputed tomographyMalignant melanomaMortalityPulmonary embolism

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