Pulmonary embolism: an unsuspected killer

摘要: The presentation of PE is often subtle and may mimic other diseases. Many pulmonary emboli invariably preclude diagnosis by their occult nature or leading to rapid death from cardiopulmonary arrest. In patients who do manifest symptoms PE, accurate essential. Often it difficult distinguish the vague diagnoses, such as acute coronary syndrome, pneumonia, COPD, CHF,aortic dissection, myocarditis pericarditis, pneumothorax, musculo-skeletal gastrointestinal causes. Regardless presentation, most fundamental step in making first consider it. Historical clues risk factors should raise clinician's suspicion.PE an unsuspected killer with a nebulous high mortality. all likelihood, will remain elusive despite advances technology wealth research. A index suspicion required, but no amount would eliminate missed cases. Patients significant underlying disease seem be challenging. comorbidity have poor reserve are likely outcomes, especially if not made anticoagulation initiated early. Controversy exists over best diagnostic approach PE. battery studies available, few providing definitive answers. Studies CT helpful at some institutions offer predictive value others. Other tests universally available. It hoped that further research improvements current modalities clear confusion controversy this ubiquitous deadly disease.