Selection of Patients with Acute Pulmonary Embolism for Thrombolytic Therapy

Abstract

According to TIPE criteria, over half the patients with image-documented pulmonary embolism could be considered for safe treatment with thrombolytic therapy. Pulmonary embolism is underdiagnosed in most clinical settings and, therefore, even larger numbers of patients than found in the TIPE survey could benefit from appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Under the TIPE criteria more patients could be treated with thrombolytic therapy than is current practice. The question remains whether that larger proportion of PE patients will benefit from thrombolytic therapy. Only a randomized clinical trial will provide a satisfactory answer. The TIPE investigators are seeking funds to support such a clinical trial.