Usually as a result of a DVT

Diagnosis is guided by clinical suspicion and guided by imaging when available

Pathophysiology

A clot from a distant site (most commonly a DVT in the leg) passes through the circulation and lodges in the pulmonary arteries. This causes loss of blood supply to the affected area of lung tissue and can reduce bloodflow return to the left atrium and thus - haemodynamic instability.

There are a number of factors for developing a DVT or PE. In many of these situations we give patients prophylactic treatment with low molecular weight heparin to reduce the risk.

Risk Factors

• Immobility
• Recent surgery
• Long haul flights
• Pregnancy
• Hormone therapy with oestrogen
• Malignancy
• Polycythaemia
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Thrombophilia

*In the patient history - Ask about risk factors such as periods of immobility, surgery and long haul flights

VTE Prophylaxis

Every patient admitted to hospital should be assessed for their risk of VTE.