[The respective role and limitations of pulmonary angiography, thoracic computed tomography, and MRI in the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism]

Rev Mal Respir. 1999 Nov;16(5 Pt 2):907-18.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Spiral or helical angioscanography for the positive or differential diagnosis of pulmonary emboli has become an emerging technique but remains poorly practised and has been little assessed scientifically. The optimal conditions to perform the test should be understood. The physician should appreciate in view of a large choice of parameters, the diagnostic value of the result and its reliability proximally and distally. Pulmonary angiography is only indicated when the angioscanography is negative according to the degree of clinical and paraclinical suspicion. Angiography magnetic resonance imaging is a diagnostic test full of promise which does not yet have its place in routine practice.

MeSH terms

  • Angiography*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Lung / blood supply
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Pulmonary Embolism / diagnosis*
  • Pulmonary Embolism / diagnostic imaging
  • Radiography, Thoracic
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*