Pulmonary Embolism

Ivan Lume

Pulmonary Embolism (PE) is defined as the obstruction of the pulmonary artery or its branches by material originating elsewhere in the body, such as thrombus, air, fat, amniotic fluid, or tumor. The document details various classifications of PE based on temporal pattern, hemodynamic stability, anatomical location, and symptomatology. It also discusses the epidemiology, highlighting its prevalence, age-related increase, and significant mortality rates if untreated. Pathogenesis is explained through Virchow's triad (venous stasis, endothelial injury, hypercoagulable state), and risk factors are categorized into genetic and acquired (provoking and non-provoking). The pathophysiological responses, including infarction, abnormal gas exchange leading to hypoxemia, and cardiovascular compromise, are elaborated.