Longembolieën

Experts disagree about the exact mortality of untreated pulmonary embolism, but timely diagnosis can save lives. For this reason, lung embolism should be part of the differential diagnosis of sudden-onset dyspnoea or an unexplainable exacerbation of existing dyspnoea. The history and physical examination provide little specific information, but the pulse and respiratory rate should always be measured and the patient examined for signs of deep vein thrombosis. The decision algorithm used in secondary care, which is based on the Wells score, D-dimer test, and spiral computed tomography, is not readily translatable to primary care; however, a D-dimer test may be relevant to exclude pulmonary embolism in some patients, but the value of this in primary care has not been adequately investigated.