High‐Altitude Pulmonary Embolism: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management

Pulmonary embolism (PE) at high altitude (HA) is a potentially life‐threatening but underrecognized condition. Unlike low‐altitude PE, high‐altitude pulmonary embolism (HA‐PE) may result from unique hypoxia‐driven mechanisms, including hemoconcentration, endothelial dysfunction, and a hypercoagulable state. In this narrative review, we summarize current evidence on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, management, and prognosis of HA‐PE, based on the literature published between 2010 and 2025 retrieved from PubMed and CNKI. This review summarizes the epidemiological profile, clinical features, altitude‐related diagnostic challenges, limitations of current therapeutic strategies, and the prognosis of HA‐PE. A more comprehensive understanding of HA‐PE is crucial for enhancing early detection and developing altitude‐adapted management approaches.