Pulmonary embolism An update.

BACKGROUND: Pulmonary embolism is a common condition and can be the source of significant morbidity and mortality.

OBJECTIVE: This article reviews the approach to the diagnostic assessment and management of patients with suspected pulmonary embolism.

DISCUSSION: Various clinical decision rules and algorithms are available to assist in the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism, and the Wells score and Pulmonary Embolism Rule-out Criteria rule are presented in this article. The utility of D-dimer testing and the role of imaging to confirm the diagnosis are also discussed. Treatment options once pulmonary embolism is confirmed are presented.