Summary:
Pulmonary embolism is a common disease with high mortality if not recognized early. A history of suddenly evolving symptoms with almost normál physical chest and heart examination is characteristic. The presence of tromboembolic risk factors and limb thrombosis support suspected diagnosis. However, contrast pulmonary CT scan, ECO, D dimers examination and echocardiography are crucial for diagnosis. Treatment with heparin and warfarin is usually introduced; however the length of the treatment is still a matter of ongoing discussion. Thrombolysis and embolectomy are reserved for specific cases.
Key words:
pulmonary embolism, anticoagulant therapy, warfarin.
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