Diagnosis and management of venous thromboembolism: an update a decade into the new millennium

Arch Iran Med. 2011 Sep;14(5):341-51.

Abstract

Venous thromboembolism refers to thrombotic events in the venous system that are most commonly manifested as deep vein thromboses in the upper or lower extremity and/or pulmonary embolism. Venous thromboembolism is a common disorder that is associated with significant mortality, morbidity and health care-related cost. An array of hereditary and acquired risk factors are associated with venous thromboembolism. In recent years, a number of pivotal studies have expanded our understanding of the pathophysiology of venous thromboembolism, and served as the basis for evidence-based guidelines on prevention, diagnosis and treatment of venous thromboembolism. Furthermore, several novel therapeutic agents with different pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and safety profiles have recently become available for treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism. The purpose of the current paper is to review the pathogenesis and epidemiology of venous thromboembolism as well as an evidence-based approach to the diagnosis and management of venous thromboembolism.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Anticoagulants* / administration & dosage
  • Anticoagulants* / adverse effects
  • Blood Coagulation* / drug effects
  • Blood Coagulation* / genetics
  • Comorbidity
  • Disease Management
  • Extremities / blood supply
  • Female
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Health Care Costs
  • Humans
  • Intermittent Pneumatic Compression Devices
  • Male
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Pulmonary Embolism / blood
  • Pulmonary Embolism / etiology
  • Pulmonary Embolism / mortality
  • Pulmonary Embolism / prevention & control*
  • Regional Blood Flow
  • Risk Factors
  • Veins / physiopathology*
  • Venous Thromboembolism* / blood
  • Venous Thromboembolism* / complications
  • Venous Thromboembolism* / economics
  • Venous Thromboembolism* / epidemiology
  • Venous Thromboembolism* / therapy

Substances

  • Anticoagulants