Pulmonary thromboembolism: A diagnostic problem in the emergency department

Abstract

Introduction: Pulmonary thromboembolism is a frequent complication in hospitalized patients, with high mortality rates if not treated early. Although it may be preventable, its outcome depends largely on a prompt diagnosis.

Development: This is a disease of complex diagnosis that constitutes a serious problem for the global health system. It is the third leading cause of cardiovascular death, after coronary heart disease and cerebral vascular accidents. Among the main risk factors are advanced age, history of cancer, use of exogenous estrogens, pregnancy and/or postpartum, immobilization of lower extremities, recent trauma or surgery, smoking, use of catheters or permanent electrodes and deep vein thrombosis.

Practical applications: The exhaustive evaluation of the clinical anatomopathological behavior of this disease in the emergency rooms allowed for better patient management, while reducing mortality and improving quality of life.

Conclusions: In the literature reviewed, the disease predominated in the elderly with several associated risk factors; the Wells scale was useful, with poor concordance between clinical and anatomopathological diagnosis in a high percentage of patients.