Key result
Chest radiographic findings were poor predictors of acute pulmonary embolism, with normal radiographs in only 12% of confirmed cases and no significant difference in common findings versus controls.
Why the study?
Do specific chest radiographic findings accurately predict acute pulmonary embolism in patients with suspected PE?
Population
1,063 patients with suspected acute pulmonary embolism (PE)
Comparison
Chest radiograph evaluation vs Patients without PE (angiographically excluded)
Design
Cohort
Authors
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Abnormal chest radiographs predominate in acute PE; leaves open their integration into current diagnostic algorithms.
Cross-Sectional (n=1,063)
Do specific chest radiographic findings accurately predict acute pulmonary embolism in patients with suspected PE?
Chest radiographs have poor predictive value for diagnosing acute pulmonary embolism and are primarily useful for excluding alternative diagnoses that clinically mimic PE.
Worsley et al. (1993) conducted a cross-sectional in suspected acute pulmonary embolism (n=1,063). Chest radiography vs. Patients without PE was evaluated on Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of chest radiographic findings. Chest radiographic findings were poor predictors of acute pulmonary embolism, with normal radiographs in only 12% of confirmed cases and no significant difference in common findings versus controls.
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