Prevalence and risk factors of pulmonary embolism in acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and its impact on outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of PE in AE-COPD is estimated to be 12.9%. This figure, however, varies based on the PE workup protocol. Higher prevalence (19.4%) was noted when all patients underwent CT as compared to when a study-specific diagnostic protocol was followed (7.8%). Recent immobilization, increased D-dimer levels, lower limb edema, older age and the concomitant presence of deep vein thrombosis are important independent risk factors for PE in patients with AE-COPD. Patients diagnosed with PE have increased mortality and longer ICU/hospital stay as compared to non-PE patients.PMID:33829447 | DOI:10.26355/eurrev_202103_25424
Source: European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Authors: Source Type: research