4. Pulmonary Embolism
A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blood clot in at least one of the arteries of the lungs. The development of PE can be fatal and can cause NCCP. The main cause of PE is deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a blood clot in the lower half of the body. The most common diagnostic tool for PE is a computed tomography angiography (CTA) in which patients are injected with contrast in order for pictures of blood vessels to be developed.
In the event that CTA cannot be performed, a pulmonary angiography can also be used to diagnose PE. In order to prevent further blood clots, those with PE need anticoagulation such as with warfarin (CoumadinTM), the most common blood thinner.
