Summary
Acute pulmonary embolisms are life-threatening
abnormalities with a wide range of signs and symptoms.
Because of the wide spectrum, from no signs or symptoms
to hypotension and shock, diagnosis can be difficult.
Early diagnosis and treatment are necessary to provide
the best care and improve patients’ outcomes.53 Alteplase
is efficacious in the treatment of acute massive and submassive
pulmonary embolisms, although it has not been
approved by the FDA for treatment of submassive pulmonary
embolism. The risk for and development of
bleeding should always be taken into account when
therapy is started. CCN