Pulmonary embolus.

Abstract

Pulmonary embolism (PE) remains acommon problem and can present withnonspecific symptoms and signs. Anticoagulation is the mainstay of management, the duration of which oftendepends on the clinical circumstances of the PE. The aim of this article is to review theepidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, management and long-term complications of PE. The incidence of PE appears to be increasing worldwide. Common risk factors include recent surgery, trauma, malignancy and oestrogen exposure. Diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical findings, laboratory tests and radiological imaging, often incorporating clinical prediction tools. Objectively confirmed PE requires anticoagulation, usually with a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC), of at least three months' duration, but indefinite anticoagulation isbeing considered increasingly because of the heightened risk for recurrence following anticoagulation cessation, andoverall safety of DOACs. Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension is rare but associated with significant morbidity and mortality.