Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is defined as partial or complete occlusion of a pulmonary arterial branch by thrombus originating from the pelvis or legs, leading to impaired blood flow and increased cardiac right ventricular pressure. PE and deep vein thrombosis are presentations of the same underlying process, venous thromboembolism. PE is the third most common cardiovascular condition of the industrialized world and has high mortality if appropriate treatment is not initiated promptly. It is, therefore, important that clinicians understand its presentation, diagnosis, the indications for certain diagnostic tests, current treatment guidelines, and the indications for inferior vena cava filter and thrombolysis. © 2014 Elsevier Inc.