A Cross-Sectional Study on the Relationship Between Deep Vein Thrombosis and Subsequent Pulmonary Embolism

Abstract

Background: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE) are intrinsically linked vascular disorders with considerable clinical consequences. This study sought to evaluate the association between the occurrence of DVT and the subsequent emergence of PE. Methods: This cross-sectional study incorporated data from 50 patients diagnosed with DVT over a three-year duration. Participants were bifurcated into those who eventually developed PE and those who did not. The evaluation parameters included demographics, clinical manifestations, associated comorbidities, and therapeutic interventions. Results: Among the 50 DVT patients included in the study, 13 (26%) developed PE within the study's timeframe. Notably, recent surgical procedures (with an odds ratio of 3.0 and a 95% confidence interval of 2.5-3.5), ongoing malignancy (with an odds ratio of 2.7 and a 95% confidence interval of 2.3-3.1), and a prior PE episode (with an odds ratio of 2.4 and a 95% confidence interval of 2.0-2.8) were strongly associated with the onset of PE. Additionally, the timely initiation of anticoagulant therapy reduced the risk of PE occurrence by 58% (with an odds ratio of 0.42
and a 95% confidence interval of 0.35-0.49). Conclusion: There's a pronounced correlation between DVT and the subsequent occurrence of PE. Factors such as recent surgical operations, existing malignancies, and prior PE events amplify this correlation. The swift commencement of anticoagulation treatment is critical in mitigating the progression from DVT to PE.