Imaging approach to COVID-19 associated pulmonary embolism

Int J Clin Pract. 2021 Oct;75(10):e14340. doi: 10.1111/ijcp.14340. Epub 2021 May 24.

Abstract

The novel coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) illness and deaths, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2, continue to increase. Multiple reports highlight the thromboembolic complications, such as pulmonary embolism (PE), in COVID-19. Imaging plays an essential role in the diagnosis and management of COVID-19 patients with PE. There continues to be a rapid evolution of knowledge related to COVID-19 associated PE. This review summarises the current understanding of prevalence, pathophysiology, role of diagnostic imaging modalities, and management, including catheter-directed therapy for COVID-19 associated PE. It also describes infection control considerations for the radiology department while providing care for patients with COVID-19 associated PE.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Humans
  • Pulmonary Embolism* / diagnostic imaging
  • SARS-CoV-2