Pulmonary embolism

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This editable Main Article is under development and subject to a disclaimer.

[edit intro]

## Contents

* 1 Pathophysiology
* 2 Diagnosis
* 2.1 Probability scoring
* 2.1.1 Wells score
* 2.1.2 Geneva score
* 2.1.3 PERC
* 2.2 Blood tests
* 2.3 Imaging
* 2.3.1 Pulmonary angiography
* 2.3.2 CT pulmonary angiography
* 2.3.3 Ventilation/perfusion scan
* 2.3.4 Chest X-ray
* 2.3.5 Magnetic resonance imaging
* 2.3.6 Ultrasonography of the legs
* 2.4 Electrocardiogram findings
* 2.5 Echocardiography findings
* 2.6 Combining tests into algorithms
* 3 Treatment
* 3.1 Anticoagulation
* 3.1.1 Duration of treatment
* 3.2 Vena cava filter
* 3.3 Thrombolysis
* 3.4 Surgical management of PE
* 4 Prognosis
* 5 Subsegmental PEs
* 5.1 Predicting complications
* 5.2 Evaluation for underlying causes for recurrence
* 6 References

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is form of embolism and thromboembolism in which a blockage of the pulmonary artery (or one of its branches), usually when a deep vein thrombosis (DVT; a blood clot from a vein), becomes dislodged from its site of formation and embolizes to the arterial blood supply of one of the lungs.[1] This process is termed thromboembolism.

## Pathophysiology[edit]

The development of thrombosis is classically due to a group of causes named Virchow's triad (alterations in blood flow, factors in the vessel wall and factors affecting the properties of the blood). Often, more than one risk factor is present.

* Alterations in blood flow: immobilization (after surgery, injury or long-distance air travel), pregnancy (also procoagulant), obesity (also procoagulant)
* Factors in the vessel wall: of limited direct relevance in VTE
* Factors affecting the properties of the blood (procoagulant state):
* Estrogen-containing hormonal contraception
* Genetic thrombophilia (factor V Leiden, protein C deficiency, protein S deficiency, antithrombin deficiency, hyperhomocysteinemia and plasminogen/fibrinolysis disorders). The role of prothrombin mutation G20210A, is unclear.[2]
* Acquired thrombophilia (malignancy, antiphospholipid syndrome, nephrotic syndrome, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria)

## Diagnosis[edit]

The diagnosis of PE is based primarily on validated clinical criteria combined with selective testing because the typical clinical presentation (shortness of breath, chest pain) cannot be definitively differentiated from other causes of chest pain and shortness of breath.[3] Patients can present with atypical syndromes such as unexplained exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.[4]

Regarding chest pain, the pain may be pleuritic.[5][6][7] However, the reliability of assessing pleuritic may be low[8] and a meta-analysis concludes that assessing pleuritic pain is not helpful.[9]

D-dimer may be under-used in patients at low risk of pulmonary embolism.[10] Introduction of computed tomographic pulmonary angiography may have led to overdiagnosis of pulmonary embolism].[11]

### Probability scoring[edit]

Various clinical prediction rules exist to help diagnose PE, such as the Wells score and the Geneva rule. More importantly, the use of any rule may exclude PE when combined with a normal d-dimer[12] and use of any rule might be associated with reduction in recurrent thromboembolism.[13]

#### Wells score[edit]

History of the Wells score

The most commonly used method to predict clinical probability, the Wells score, is a clinical prediction rule, whose use is complicated by multiple versions being available. In 1995, Wells et al initially developed a prediction rule (based on a literature search) to predict the likelihood of PE, based on clinical criteria.[14] The prediction rule was revised in 1998[15] This prediction rule was further revised when simplified during a validation by Wells et al in 2000.[16] In the 2000 publication, Wells proposed two different scoring systems using cutoffs of 2 or 4 with the same prediction rule.[16] In 2001, Wells published results using the more conservative cutoff of 2 to create three categories.[17] An additional version, the "modified extended version", using the more recent cutoff of 2 but including findings from Wells's initial studies[14][15] were proposed.[18] Most recently, studies (including one by Wells[19]) reverted to Wells's earlier use of a cutoff of ≤ 4 points[16] to create only two categories.[20][19]

Wells score

The Wells score:[21]

* clinically suspected DVT - 3.0 points
* alternative diagnosis is less likely than PE - 3.0 points
* tachycardia (>100 bpm) - 1.5 points
* immobilization/surgery for 3 days ore more in previous four weeks - 1.5 points
* history of DVT or PE - 1.5 points
* hemoptysis - 1.0 points
* malignancy (treatment for within 6 months, palliative) - 1.0 points

Interpretation of the Wells score

Traditional interpretation[16][17][22]

* Score >6.0 - High (probability 59% based on pooled data[23])
* Score 2.0 to 6.0 - Moderate (probability 29% based on pooled data[23])
* Score <2.0 - Low (probability 4% to 15% based on pooled data[23])

Alternate interpretation[24][16][20][19]

* Score > 4 - PE likely. Consider diagnostic imaging.
* Score 4 or less - PE unlikely. Consider D-dimer to rule out PE.

#### Geneva score[edit]

The Geneva score also has several versions including the original version with 7 items that include blood gas and chest radiograph[25] the 'revised' version with 8 items using only signs and symptoms:[26]

Revised Geneva Score  Factor | Points

|

Risk factor
Age > 65 | 1
Previous PE or DVT | 3
Surgery under general anesthesia or lower-limb fracture within 1 month | 2
Malignancy (either active or considered cured within 1 year | 2
Symptoms
Unilateral lower-limb pain | 3
Hemoptysis | 2
Clinical signs
Heart rate 75-94 | 3
Heart rate > 94 | 5
Pain on lower-limb palpation and unilateral edema | 4
Interpretation of the Revised Geneva Score  Points | Clinical probability | Prevalence of PE

|
|

0 -3 | Low | 8%
4 - 10 | Intermediate | 29%
> 10 | High | 74%

More recently, a "Simplified revised version" assigns only one point to each sign and symptom. The simplified version, which gives one point to each of the following:[27]

* age over 65
* history of deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
* surgery under general anesthesia or lower-limb fracture within 1 month
* active malignancy
* unilateral lower-limb pain
* hemoptysis
* heart rate between 75 and 94 (give additional point if > 95)
* pain on lower-limb palpation and unilateral edema

In this version, a patient with a score of 2 or less is unlikely to have a pulmonary embolism during the next three months.

#### PERC[edit]

The Pulmonary Embolism Rule-out Criteria (PERC) may identify patients who are at such low risk that d-dimer testing is not needed in low (<15% prevalence)[28][29], but not medium (>20% prevalence)[30], risk populations.

### Blood tests[edit]

In low/moderate suspicion of PE, a normal D-dimer level (shown in a blood test) is enough to exclude the possibility of thrombotic PE.[31][32][33] Unfortunately, many or even most doctors do not explicitly calculate pretest probability when interpreting the results of the d-dimer.[34]

Immunologic tests for d-dimer are generally use immunoassays such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or serologic tests such as agglutination tests. The immunoassays (more specifically, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) tend to be more sensitive.[31]

D-dimer tests for pulmonary embolism[31][32] | sensitivity | specificity

|
|

Immunoassays
Elisa such as VIDAS™ | 95%[31]
96%[32] | 44%[31]
39%[32]
Agglutination tests
Latex agglutination such as Tinaquant™ | 89%[31]
96%[32] | 45%[31]
43%[32]
Whole blood hemagglutination test such as SimpliRED™ | 78%[31]
87%[32] | 74%[31]
66%[32]

Most patients with a pulmonary embolism have an abnormal alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient.[35]

### Imaging[edit]

#### Pulmonary angiography[edit]

The gold standard for diagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE) is pulmonary angiography. Pulmonary angiography is used less often due to wider acceptance of CT scans, which are non-invasive.

#### CT pulmonary angiography[edit]

Computed tomography with radiocontrast, also known as computed tomographic pulmonary angiography (CTPA), is increasingly used as the mainstay in diagnosis.[36] Advantages are clinical equivalence, its non-invasive nature, its greater availability to patients, and the possibility of detecting alternative diagnoses[37] from the differential diagnosis when there is no pulmonary embolism. CTPA has progressed to be available with 64 slices, each 0.625 mm thick. These machines take 3-4 seconds to scan and may be gated to the heart beat.

Role in diagnosis

Assessing the accuracy of CT pulmonary angiography is hindered by the rapid changes in the number of rows of detectors available in multidetector CT (MDCT) machines.[38] The PIOPED II study used a mixture of 4 slice and 16 slice scanners and reported a sensitivity of 83% and a specificity of 96%. This study noted that additional testing is necessary when the clinical probability is inconsistent with the imaging results.[39]

Positive predictive value of CT pulmonary angiography (CTA) in the PIOPED II study[39] Location of embolism | Number of patients
with true positive CTA | Total number of patients
with this finding on CTA | Total number of patients
with embolism in this location | Positive predictive value of CTA

|
|
|
|

Any | 150 | 175 | 183 | 86%
Embolism in a main or lobar artery | 116 | 120 | Not reported | 97%
Segmental vessel | 32 | 47 | Not reported | 68%
Subsegmental branch | 2 | 8 | Not reported | 25%

Role in Prognosis

Two systematic reviews[40][41] and two more recent randomized controlled trials[42][19] have studied prognosis after a negative CTPA.

Both systematic reviews concluded that is appears safe to withhold anticoagulation after a negative CTPA.[40][41] However, there may be two limitations to these conclusions. First, only one study in the two reviews has a pretest probability over 40%. Thus, these conclusions may not generalize to patients who are high risk in the three level Wells score. Second, many of the patients in these studies had additional tests such as leg dopplers as part of their evaluation so the results may not address CTPA as an individual test.

A more recent randomized controlled trial used d-dimer along with a mixture of 16 to 64 row detectors and found that adding imaging of the legs was not needed.[42] Among the patients included in this protocol, the prevalence of pulmonary embolism was 20.6%. All patients had either a d-dimer test or a leg ultrasonogram to help exclude pulmonary embolism.

A second randomized controlled trial was published after the two systematic reviews. This trial included patients with either patients with a Wells score of 4.5 or greater or a positive D-dimer assay result. The prevalence of pulmonary embolism during the initial evaluation was 14%. The trial found that CTPA, especially when multidector scans are used, increase the number of emboli found as compared to Ventilation/perfusion scan.[19] The importance of the increased detection is uncertain, but may be partly overdiagnosis.[43]

#### Ventilation/perfusion scan[edit]

Ventilation/perfusion scan (or V/Q scan or lung scintigraphy), which shows that some areas of the lung are being ventilated but not perfused with blood (due to obstruction by a clot). This type of examination is used less often because of the more widespread availability of CT technology, however, it may be useful in patients who have an allergy to iodinated contrast or in pregnancy due to lower radiation exposure than CT.

For patients with a normal chest x-ray, doing a V/Q scan rather than computed tomographic pulmonary angiography may reduce radiation exposure.[44]

#### Chest X-ray[edit]

Chest X-rays are often done on patients with shortness of breath to help rule-out other causes, such as congestive heart failure and rib fracture. Chest X-rays in PE are rarely normal,[45] but usually lack signs that suggest the diagnosis of PE (e.g. Westermark sign, Hampton's hump).

#### Magnetic resonance imaging[edit]

Magnetic resonance imaging with gadolinium has lower sensitivity than other methods and images are not always technically adequate.[46]

#### Ultrasonography of the legs[edit]

Ultrasonography or Duplex Doppler ultrasonography of the legs may help by diagnosing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the legs that may have led to pulmonary embolism. The presence of DVT, as shown on ultrasonography of the legs usually warrants anticoagulation, because of the strong association between DVT and PE.

Examining the legs may be valid approach in pregnancy, in x-rays might cause birth defects in the unborn child. However, a negative scan does not rule out PE, and low-radiation dose scanning may be required if the mother is deemed at high risk of having pulmonary embolism.

### Electrocardiogram findings[edit]

An ECG may show signs of right heart strain or acute cor pulmonale in cases of large PEs - the classic signs are a large S wave in lead I, a large Q wave in lead III and an inverted T wave in lead III ("S1Q3T3").[47][48] This is occasionally (up to 20%) present, but may also occur in other acute lung conditions and has therefore limited diagnostic value; the most commonly seen sign in the ECG is sinus tachycardia.

### Echocardiography findings[edit]

In massive and submassive PE, dysfunction of the right side of the heart can be seen on echocardiography, an indication that the pulmonary artery is severely obstructed and the heart is unable to match the pressure. Some studies (see below) suggest that this finding may be an indication for thrombolysis. Not every patient with a (suspected) pulmonary embolism requires an echocardiogram, but elevations in cardiac troponins or brain natriuretic peptide may indicate heart strain and warrant an echocardiogram.[49]

The specific appearance of the right ventricle on echocardiography is referred to as the McConnell sign. This is the finding of akinesia of the mid-free wall but normal motion of the apex. This phenomenon has a 77% sensitivity and a 94% specificity for the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism.[50]

### Combining tests into algorithms[edit]

Recent recommendations for a diagnostic algorithm have been published by the PIOPED II investigators; however, these recommendations do not reflect research using 64 slice MDCT.[51][23] These investigators recommended:

* Low clinical probability. If negative D-dimer, PE is excluded. If positive D-dimer, obtain MDCT and based treatment on results.
* Moderate clinical probability. If negative D-dimer, PE is excluded. However, the authors were not concerned that a negative MDCT with negative D-dimer in this setting has an 5% probability of being false. Presumably, the 5% error rate will fall as 64 slice MDCT is more commonly used. If positive D-dimer, obtain MDCT and based treatment on results.
* High clinical probability. Proceed to MDCT. If positive, treat, if negative, addition tests are needed to exclude PE.

## Treatment[edit]

In most cases, anticoagulant therapy is the mainstay of treatment. Some patients at risk of bleeding and with low risk of recurrent embolism may have treatment safely withheld.[52] Acutely, supportive treatments, such as oxygen or analgesia, are often required. See respiratory emergencies and critical care.

### Anticoagulation[edit]

For more information, see: anticoagulant.

In most cases, anticoagulant therapy is the mainstay of treatment. Heparin, low molecular weight heparins (such as enoxaparin and dalteparin), or fondaparinux is administered initially, while warfarin therapy is commenced (this may take several days, usually while the patient is in hospital). Warfarin therapy often requires frequent dose adjustment and monitoring of the INR. In PE, INRs between 2.0 and 3.0 are generally considered ideal. If another episode of PE occurs under warfarin treatment, the INR window may be increased to e.g. 2.5-3.5 (unless there are contraindications) or anticoagulation may be changed to a different anticoagulant e.g. low molecular weight heparin. In patients with an underlying malignancy, therapy with a course of low molecular weight heparin may be favored over warfarin based on the results of the CLOT trial.[53] Similarly, pregnant women are often maintained on low molecular weight heparin to avoid the known teratogenic effects of warfarin.

Sometimes, anticoagulation may be done as an outpatient.[54][55][56][57]

#### Duration of treatment[edit]

Regarding the duration of anticoagulation, see embolism and thrombosis: treatment.

### Vena cava filter[edit]

If anticoagulant therapy is contraindicated and/or ineffective an inferior vena cava filter may be implanted[58]; however, the risk-benefit is uncertain.[59]

A superior vena cava filter can be used for upper extremity thrombosis; however, the median survival is approximately one month.[60][61] A retrievable filter has been used.[62]

### Thrombolysis[edit]

For more information, see: Thrombolysis.

Clinical practice guidelines address the management of severe forms of embolism and thrombosis which may require thrombolysis.[63] An algorithm from the guidelines is online at http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/123/16/1788/F2.large.jpg. Massive PE causing hemodynamic instability (marked decreased oxygen saturation, tachycardia and/or hypotension) is an indication for thrombolysis, the enzymatic destruction of the clot with medication.

For submassive PE, some advocate thrombolysis if right ventricular dysfunction can be demonstrated on echocardiography.[64] However, an uncontrolled study suggests that submassive saddle PEs may not require thrombolysis.[65]

Thrombolysis can be given for severe PEs when surgery is not immediately available or possible (e.g. periarrest or during cardiac arrest). The only trial that addressed this issue had 8 patients; the four receiving thrombolysis survived, while the four who received only heparin died.[66] The use of thrombolysis in moderate PEs is still debatable. The aim of the therapy is to dissolve the clot, but there is an attendant risk of bleeding or stroke.[67]

### Surgical management of PE[edit]

Surgical management of acute pulmonary embolism (pulmonary thrombectomy) is uncommon and has largely been abandoned because of poor long-term outcomes. However, recently, it has gone through a resurgence with the revision of the surgical technique and is thought to benefit selected patients.[68]

Chronic pulmonary embolism leading to pulmonary hypertension (known as chronic thromboembolic hypertension) is treated with a surgical procedure known as a pulmonary thromboendarterectomy.

## Prognosis[edit]

Mortality from untreated PE is said to be 26% based on the outcome in patients who received placebo treatment.[69] The rate of 26% in the placebo group is probably an overstatement, given that the technology of the day may have detected only severe PEs.

With treatment, emboli resolve.[70] About half of emboli cannot be imaged after 10 days and about 80% cannot be imaged after one month.[70]

Prognosis depends on the amount of lung that is affected (embolic burden)[71] and on the co-existence of other medical conditions; chronic embolisation to the lung can lead to pulmonary hypertension.

## Subsegmental PEs[edit]

There is controversy over whether or not small subsegmental PEs need to be treated at all[72][73] and some evidence exists that patients with subsegmental PEs may do well without treatment.[74][39]

### Predicting complications[edit]

The PESI and Geneva prediction rules can estimate mortality and so may guide selection of patients who can be considered for outpatient therapy.[75]

Complications are more likely if heart rate is 100 bpm or more and if the D-dimer concentration > 3,000 microg/ml or more.[76]

### Evaluation for underlying causes for recurrence[edit]

After a first PE, the search for secondary causes is usually brief. Only when a second PE occurs, and especially when this happens while still under anticoagulant therapy, a further search for underlying conditions is undertaken. This will include testing ("thrombophilia screen") for Factor V Leiden mutation, antiphospholipid antibodies, protein C and S and antithrombin levels, and later prothrombin mutation, MTHFR mutation, Factor VIII concentration and rarer inherited coagulation abnormalities.

## References[edit]

1. ↑ Tapson VF (March 2008). "Acute pulmonary embolism". N. Engl. J. Med. 358 (10): 1037–52. DOI:10.1056/NEJMra072753. PMID 18322285. Research Blogging.
2. ↑ Segal JB, Brotman DJ, Necochea AJ, et al. (June 2009). "Predictive value of factor V Leiden and prothrombin G20210A in adults with venous thromboembolism and in family members of those with a mutation: a systematic review". JAMA 301 (23): 2472–85. DOI:10.1001/jama.2009.853. PMID 19531787. Research Blogging.
3. ↑ Chunilal SD, Eikelboom JW, Attia J, et al (2003). "Does this patient have pulmonary embolism?". JAMA 290 (21): 2849–58. DOI:10.1001/jama.290.21.2849. PMID 14657070. Research Blogging.
4. ↑ Tillie-Leblond I, Marquette CH, Perez T, et al (March 2006). "Pulmonary embolism in patients with unexplained exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: prevalence and risk factors". Ann. Intern. Med. 144 (6): 390–6. PMID 16549851. [e]
5. ↑ Stein PD, Beemath A, Matta F, Weg JG, Yusen RD, Hales CA et al. (2007). "Clinical characteristics of patients with acute pulmonary embolism: data from PIOPED II.". Am J Med 120 (10): 871-9. DOI:10.1016/j.amjmed.2007.03.024. PMID 17904458. PMC PMC2071924. Research Blogging. (uncontrolled case series)
6. ↑ Hull RD, Raskob GE, Carter CJ, Coates G, Gill GJ, Sackett DL et al. (1988). "Pulmonary embolism in outpatients with pleuritic chest pain.". Arch Intern Med 148 (4): 838-44. PMID 3355304. [e]
7. ↑ Stein PD, Terrin ML, Hales CA, Palevsky HI, Saltzman HA, Thompson BT et al. (1991). "Clinical, laboratory, roentgenographic, and electrocardiographic findings in patients with acute pulmonary embolism and no pre-existing cardiac or pulmonary disease.". Chest 100 (3): 598-603. PMID 1909617. [e]
8. ↑ Kline JA, Nelson RD, Jackson RE, Courtney DM (2002). "Criteria for the safe use of D-dimer testing in emergency department patients with suspected pulmonary embolism: a multicenter US study.". Ann Emerg Med 39 (2): 144-52. PMID 11823768. [e]
9. ↑ West J, Goodacre S, Sampson F (2007). "The value of clinical features in the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism: systematic review and meta-analysis.". QJM 100 (12): 763-9. DOI:10.1093/qjmed/hcm113. PMID 18089542. Research Blogging.
10. ↑ Venkatesh AK, Kline JA, Courtney DM, Camargo CA, Plewa MC, Nordenholz KE et al. (2012). "Evaluation of Pulmonary Embolism in the Emergency Department and Consistency With a National Quality Measure: Quantifying the Opportunity for ImprovementEvaluation of Pulmonary Embolism in ER.". Arch Intern Med: 1-5. DOI:10.1001/archinternmed.2012.1804. PMID 22664742. Research Blogging.
11. ↑ Wiener RS, Schwartz LM, Woloshin S (2011). "Time trends in pulmonary embolism in the United States: evidence of overdiagnosis.". Arch Intern Med 171 (9): 831-7. DOI:10.1001/archinternmed.2011.178. PMID 21555660. PMC PMC3140219. Research Blogging.
12. ↑ Douma RA, Mos IC, Erkens PM, Nizet TA, Durian MF, Hovens MM et al. (2011). "Performance of 4 clinical decision rules in the diagnostic management of acute pulmonary embolism: a prospective cohort study.". Ann Intern Med 154 (11): 709-18. DOI:10.1059/0003-4819-154-11-201106070-00002. PMID 21646554. Research Blogging.
13. ↑ Roy PM, Meyer G, Vielle B, Le Gall C, Verschuren F, Carpentier F, Leveau P, Furber A (2006). "Appropriateness of diagnostic management and outcomes of suspected pulmonary embolism". Ann. Intern. Med. 144 (3): 157-64. PMID 16461959.
14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 Wells PS, Hirsh J, Anderson DR, Lensing AW, Foster G, Kearon C, Weitz J, D'Ovidio R, Cogo A, Prandoni P (1995). "Accuracy of clinical assessment of deep-vein thrombosis". Lancet 345 (8961): 1326-30. DOI:doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(95)92535-X. PMID 7752753. Research Blogging.
15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 Wells PS, Ginsberg JS, Anderson DR, Kearon C, Gent M, Turpie AG, Bormanis J, Weitz J, Chamberlain M, Bowie D, Barnes D, Hirsh J (1998). "Use of a clinical model for safe management of patients with suspected pulmonary embolism". Ann Intern Med 129 (12): 997-1005. PMID 9867786.
16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 16.2 16.3 16.4 Wells P, Anderson D, Rodger M, Ginsberg J, Kearon C, Gent M, Turpie A, Bormanis J, Weitz J, Chamberlain M, Bowie D, Barnes D, Hirsh J (2000). "Derivation of a simple clinical model to categorize patients probability of pulmonary embolism: increasing the models utility with the SimpliRED D-dimer.". Thromb Haemost 83 (3): 416-20. PMID 10744147.
17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 Wells PS, Anderson DR, Rodger M, Stiell I, Dreyer JF, Barnes D, Forgie M, Kovacs G, Ward J, Kovacs MJ (2001). "Excluding pulmonary embolism at the bedside without diagnostic imaging: management of patients with suspected pulmonary embolism presenting to the emergency department by using a simple clinical model and d-dimer". Ann Intern Med 135 (2): 98-107. PMID 11453709.
18. ↑ Sanson BJ, Lijmer JG, Mac Gillavry MR, Turkstra F, Prins MH, Büller HR (2000). "Comparison of a clinical probability estimate and two clinical models in patients with suspected pulmonary embolism. ANTELOPE-Study Group". Thromb. Haemost. 83 (2): 199-203. PMID 10739372.
19. ↑ 19.0 19.1 19.2 19.3 19.4 Anderson DR, Kahn SR, Rodger MA, Kovacs MJ, Morris T, Hirsch A, Lang E, Stiell I, Kovacs G, Dreyer J, Dennie C, Cartier Y, Barnes D, Burton E, Pleasance S, Skedgel C, O'Rouke K, Wells PS (2007). "Computed tomographic pulmonary angiography vs ventilation-perfusion lung scanning in patients with suspected pulmonary embolism: a randomized controlled trial". JAMA 298 (23): 2743-53. DOI:10.1001/jama.298.23.2743. PMID 18165667. Research Blogging.
20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 van Belle A, Büller H, Huisman M, Huisman P, Kaasjager K, Kamphuisen P, Kramer M, Kruip M, Kwakkel-van Erp J, Leebeek F, Nijkeuter M, Prins M, Sohne M, Tick L (2006). "Effectiveness of managing suspected pulmonary embolism using an algorithm combining clinical probability, D-dimer testing, and computed tomography". JAMA 295 (2): 172-9. DOI:10.1001/jama.295.2.172. PMID 16403929. Research Blogging.
21. ↑ Neff MJ (2003). "ACEP releases clinical policy on evaluation and management of pulmonary embolism". American family physician 68 (4): 759-60. PMID 12952389. [e]
22. ↑ Yap KS, Kalff V, Turlakow A, Kelly MJ (2007). "A prospective reassessment of the utility of the Wells score in identifying pulmonary embolism". Med. J. Aust. 187 (6): 333–6. PMID 17874979. [e]
23. ↑ 23.0 23.1 23.2 23.3 Stein PD, Woodard PK, Weg JG, Wakefield TW, Tapson VF, Sostman HD, Sos TA, Quinn DA, Leeper KV, Hull RD, Hales CA, Gottschalk A, Goodman LR, Fowler SE, Buckley JD (2007). "Diagnostic pathways in acute pulmonary embolism: recommendations of the PIOPED II Investigators". Radiology 242 (1): 15-21. DOI:10.1148/radiol.2421060971. PMID 17185658. Research Blogging.
24. ↑ Geersing, G.-J.; P. M. G. Erkens, W. A. M. Lucassen, H. R. Buller, H. t. Cate, A. W. Hoes, K. G. M. Moons, M. H. Prins, R. Oudega, H. C. P. M. van Weert, H. E. J. H. Stoffers (2012-10-04). "Safe exclusion of pulmonary embolism using the Wells rule and qualitative D-dimer testing in primary care: prospective cohort study". BMJ 345 (oct04 2): e6564-e6564. DOI:10.1136/bmj.e6564. ISSN 1756-1833. Retrieved on 2012-10-05. Research Blogging.
25. ↑ Wicki J, Perneger TV, Junod AF, Bounameaux H, Perrier A (January 2001). "Assessing clinical probability of pulmonary embolism in the emergency ward: a simple score". Arch. Intern. Med. 161 (1): 92–7. PMID 11146703. [e]
26. ↑ Le Gal G, Righini M, Roy PM, et al (February 2006). "Prediction of pulmonary embolism in the emergency department: the revised Geneva score". Ann. Intern. Med. 144 (3): 165–71. PMID 16461960. [e]
27. ↑ Klok FA, Mos IC, Nijkeuter M, et al (October 2008). "Simplification of the revised Geneva score for assessing clinical probability of pulmonary embolism". Arch. Intern. Med. 168 (19): 2131–6. DOI:10.1001/archinte.168.19.2131. PMID 18955643. Research Blogging.
28. ↑ Kline JA, Courtney DM, Kabrhel C, Moore CL, Smithline HA, Plewa MC et al. (2008). "Prospective multicenter evaluation of the pulmonary embolism rule-out criteria.". J Thromb Haemost 6 (5): 772-80. DOI:10.1111/j.1538-7836.2008.02944.x. PMID 18318689. Research Blogging.
29. ↑ Wolf SJ, McCubbin TR, Nordenholz KE, Naviaux NW, Haukoos JS (2008). "Assessment of the pulmonary embolism rule-out criteria rule for evaluation of suspected pulmonary embolism in the emergency department.". Am J Emerg Med 26 (2): 181-5. DOI:10.1016/j.ajem.2007.04.026. PMID 18272098. Research Blogging.
30. ↑ Hugli O, Righini M, Le Gal G, Roy PM, Sanchez O, Verschuren F et al. (2011). "The pulmonary embolism rule-out criteria (PERC) rule does not safely exclude pulmonary embolism.". J Thromb Haemost 9 (2): 300-4. DOI:10.1111/j.1538-7836.2010.04147.x. PMID 21091866. Research Blogging.
31. ↑ 31.0 31.1 31.2 31.3 31.4 31.5 31.6 31.7 31.8 Stein PD, Hull RD, Patel KC, et al (April 2004). "D-dimer for the exclusion of acute venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism: a systematic review". Ann. Intern. Med. 140 (8): 589–602. PMID 15096330. [e] ACP Journal Club review
32. ↑ 32.0 32.1 32.2 32.3 32.4 32.5 32.6 32.7 Di Nisio M, Squizzato A, Rutjes AW, Büller HR, Zwinderman AH, Bossuyt PM (February 2007). "Diagnostic accuracy of D-dimer test for exclusion of venous thromboembolism: a systematic review". J. Thromb. Haemost. 5 (2): 296–304. DOI:10.1111/j.1538-7836.2006.02328.x. PMID 17155963. Research Blogging.
33. ↑ Gupta RT, Kakarla RK, Kirshenbaum KJ, Tapson VF (August 2009). "D-dimers and efficacy of clinical risk estimation algorithms: sensitivity in evaluation of acute pulmonary embolism". AJR Am J Roentgenol 193 (2): 425–30. DOI:10.2214/AJR.08.2186. PMID 19620439. Research Blogging.
34. ↑ Smith C, Mensah A, Mal S, Worster A (November 2008). "Is pretest probability assessment on emergency department patients with suspected venous thromboembolism documented before SimpliRED D-dimer testing?". CJEM 10 (6): 519–23. PMID 19000347. [e]
35. ↑ McFarlane MJ, Imperiale TF (1994). "Use of the alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient in the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism". Am. J. Med. 96 (1): 57–62. PMID 8304364. [e]
36. ↑ Stein PD, Kayali F, Olson RE (May 2004). "Trends in the use of diagnostic imaging in patients hospitalized with acute pulmonary embolism". The American journal of cardiology 93 (10): 1316–7. DOI:10.1016/j.amjcard.2004.02.022. PMID 15135716. Research Blogging.
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40. ↑ 40.0 40.1 Quiroz R, Kucher N, Zou KH, et al (April 2005). "Clinical validity of a negative computed tomography scan in patients with suspected pulmonary embolism: a systematic review". JAMA : the journal of the American Medical Association 293 (16): 2012–7. DOI:10.1001/jama.293.16.2012. PMID 15855435. Research Blogging.
41. ↑ 41.0 41.1 Moores LK, Jackson WL, Shorr AF, Jackson JL (December 2004). "Meta-analysis: outcomes in patients with suspected pulmonary embolism managed with computed tomographic pulmonary angiography". Annals of internal medicine 141 (11): 866–74. PMID 15583229. [e]
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43. ↑ Ranji SR, Shojania KG, Trowbridge RL, Auerbach AD (2006). "Impact of reliance on CT pulmonary angiography on diagnosis of pulmonary embolism: a Bayesian analysis". J Hosp Med 1 (2): 81-7. DOI:10.1002/jhm.71. PMID 17219477. Research Blogging.
44. ↑ Stein EG, Haramati LB, Chamarthy M, Sprayregen S, Davitt MM, Freeman LM (2010). "Success of a safe and simple algorithm to reduce use of CT pulmonary angiography in the emergency department.". AJR Am J Roentgenol 194 (2): 392-7. DOI:10.2214/AJR.09.2499. PMID 20093601. Research Blogging.
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46. ↑ Stein PD, Chenevert TL, Fowler SE, Goodman LR, Gottschalk A, Hales CA et al. (2010). "Gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography for pulmonary embolism: a multicenter prospective study (PIOPED III).". Ann Intern Med 152 (7): 434-43, W142-3. DOI:10.1059/0003-4819-152-7-201004060-00008. PMID 20368649. Research Blogging.
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62. ↑ Nadkarni S, Macdonald S, Cleveland TJ, Gaines PA (2002). "Placement of a retrievable Günther Tulip filter in the superior vena cava for upper extremity deep venous thrombosis". Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol 25 (6): 524–6. DOI:10.1007/s00270-001-0112-9. PMID 12357312. Research Blogging.
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73. ↑ Le Gal G, Righini M, Parent F, van Strijen M, Couturaud F (2006). "Diagnosis and management of subsegmental pulmonary embolism". J Thromb Haemost 4 (4): 724-31. PMID 16634736.
74. ↑ Perrier A, Bounameaux H (2006). "Accuracy or outcome in suspected pulmonary embolism". N Engl J Med 354 (22): 2383-5. PMID 16738276.
75. ↑ Jiménez D, Yusen RD, Otero R, et al (2007). "Prognostic models for selecting patients with acute pulmonary embolism for initial outpatient therapy". Chest 132 (1): 24-30. DOI:10.1378/chest.06-2921. PMID 17625081. Research Blogging.
76. ↑ Agterof MJ, van Bladel ER, Schutgens RE, Snijder RJ, Tromp EA, Prins MH et al. (2009). "Risk stratification of patients with pulmonary embolism based on pulse rate and D-dimer concentration.". Thromb Haemost 102 (4): 683-7. DOI:10.1160/TH09-04-0229. PMID 19806253. Research Blogging.