ANALYSIS OF RISK FACTORS FOR PULMONARY THROMBOEMBOLISM IN A HOSPITAL IN WESTERN PARANÁ

Abstract

Pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) is a serious clinical condition characterized by the obstruction of the pulmonary artery or its branches by a thrombus or embolus. Data on PTE are often underestimated or overestimated relative to its true incidence. Right ventricular failure, caused by pressure overload, is the leading cause of death from pulmonary embolism. In Brazil, PTE is an underreported and neglected disease. The use of clinical scores, such as the Wells and modified Geneva scores, can aid in clinical suspicion and improve patient management, resulting in better outcomes. Identifying risk factors allows healthcare professionals to recognize the signs and symptoms of PTE early, accelerating diagnosis and treatment. A retrospective cross-sectional observational study was conducted based on medical records of patients diagnosed with PTE. The most relevant risk factors identified were recent hospitalization (<4 weeks) and recent surgery (<4 weeks), both with a prevalence of 34.5%.