Prognostic role of respiratory failure in acute pulmonary embolism: a prospective multicenter study

Acute pulmonary embolism (APE) is a significant cause of mortality. While numerous studies have tried to improve its prognostic evaluation, the risk stratification remains challenging [ [1] ]. In general, the aim of any prognostic tool is to identify patients who require fibrinolysis and distinguish between patients who need close clinical monitoring from patients for whom an early or even immediate discharge would be sufficient. Despite extensive research, however, the risk stratification in PE remains uncertain. Over the last several years, a cardiology-oriented vision has prevailed, supported by several studies showing that abnormal levels of cardiac biomarkers or instrumental right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) predict an increased risk of early adverse events.