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Venous thromboembolism is a composite term for deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Deep vein thrombosis often leads to pulmonary embolism therefore the two conditions frequently coexist and share the same aetiology and pathogenesis.
Formation of a blood clot, or thrombus, commonly occurs in the femoral or more distal veins of the legs where a large volume of blood tends to collect at low pressure. Blood stasis can then occur, favouring the development of a long thrombus. This process is called deep vein thrombosis. Proximal and distal deep vein thrombosis are defined as thrombi located in the deep veins above and below the knee (trifurcation of pes anserinus), respectively. Deep vein thrombosis is often asymptomatic but in other cases presents with redness, pain, and swelling.
Post-thrombotic syndrome can be a consequence of deep vein thrombosis. Even if deep vein thrombosis is asymptomatic, after some years post-thrombotic syndrome may develop as a result of damaged vasculature. Rollover the “i” icon to learn more.
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The end of the thrombus often breaks free, however, forming an embolus that circulates in the blood until it becomes lodged in a vessel. Emboli from the femoral vein return to the heart via the venous system and are then ejected from the heart at high pressure into the lung. If the emboli become lodged in the big vessels of the lung the result is a potentially fatal pulmonary embolism. Dyspnea, syncope, hypotension, and cyanosis indicate a massive pulmonary embolism, while pleuritic pain, cough, and hemoptysis often suggest a small embolism located distally near the pleura. Symptoms may be vague or absent.
Pulmonary hypertension can be a consequence of pulmonary embolism. Roll your cursor over the 'i' icon to learn more. Click continue when you are ready.
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The incidence and prevalence of VTE is very high, and its financial impact in huge. The rational for prophylactic therapy is clear, but surveys have clearly shown that it is not being implemented. What are the reasons for a lack of prophylactic therapy currently? Clearly, there is a strong need for a drug like Exanta to be used for VTE prevention. Rollover each panel to view detailed information. Follow the order shown. Click continue when you are ready.
In conclusion, epidemiological studies provide a convincing argument for the widespread use of prophylactic therapy for VTE. Current concerns of physicians can be addressed with the results from recent epidemiological surveys and clinical trials discussed in this lesson.
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Indicate whether each statement is true or false.