Epidemiological study of acute pulmonary embolism in a tertiary care center

Abstract

Background: Acute pulmonary embolism remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to determine the clinical profile, management, and outcomes of patients with acute pulmonary embolism. Methods: This was a retrospective, single-center, and observational study. All consecutive patients with proven diagnosis of pulmonary embolism and treated at a tertiary care center were included in the study based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: From January 2012 to May 2018, a total of 304 patients diagnosed with pulmonary embolism were included in the study. Majority of the patients (n = 195; 64.14%) were male. Among included patients, 92 (30.66%) were smokers, and 81 (26.6%) were obese. Dyspnea (98.03%) was the most commonly observed symptom. Of patients who underwent bilateral lower limb venous Doppler, deep vein thrombosis was noted in 172 (56.57%). Electrocardiography confirmed the presence of sinus tachycardia and classical S1Q3T3 pattern in 284 (93.42%) and 79 (25.99%) patients, respectively. Chest X-ray showed dilated main and right pulmonary arteries in 170 (55.92%) patients. Right ventricular dysfunction as detected by echocardiography was observed in 241 (79.28%) patients. Thrombolytic therapy was administered in 158 (51.97%) patients (n = 86 (28.29%) were treated with tenecteplase; n = 72 (23.68%) were treated with streptokinase). Conclusions: This study gives an insight into the clinical profile of patients hospitalized with a confirmed diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism along with treatment and diagnostic approaches adopted by the physician in the Indian scenario.

Keywords

• cardiovascular diseases
• electrocardiography
• pulmonary embolism