“Venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), is a common clinical problem associated with significant mortality and life-long morbidity among hospitalized patients and outpatients. The diagnosis of VTE is challenging because of the non specific signs and symptoms of this disease.”

“The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical presentation and 3-month mortality associated with some forms of VTE: PE with DVT, and PE without DVT.”

“Along with the use of state of the art diagnostic tools and thromboprophylaxis, we have shown in this nationwide prospective cohort study that VTE is a heterogeneous disease with regards to clinical profile and short-term prognosis. Proximal DVT and PE with DVT remain severe diseases with substantial 3-month mortality. In contrast, PE without DVT do not modify 3-month mortality and deserve further study to improve understanding of their physiopathology and to determine appropriate management strategies.”

Sevestre MA, et al Optimev study investigators. Clinical presentation and mortality in pulmonary embolism: the Optimev study. J Mal Vasc. 2010 Jul;35(4):242-9. Full Text for Emory Users