CT diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism

Abstract

4.2.13 Conclusion: Positive results are widely accepted as accurate demonstration of PE, but negative results are still interpreted cautiously by some authors. The ability to provide alternative diagnoses in patients without PE is an undisputed advantage of CT. Examination of the leg veins may be indicated in negative CT. The widespread use of multidetectector-row CT is expected to increase overall accuracy of the test. Follow-up studies of patients without anticoagulation are mandatory. The CTPA should be considered the initial imaging modality of choice, particularly in patients subgroups, which are known to be associated with a high rate of nondiagnostic V/Q scans, such as in-patients, patients with a history of cardiopulmonary disease, or abnormal chest X-ray. © 2007 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.