Pulmonary Embolism in Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Prevalence of Pulmonary Embolism in Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence of pulmonary embolism in our population of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients admitted to hospital with dyspnea. The patients will undergo investigation for pulmonary embolism, according to current guidelines.

Inclusion Criteria:

• known or suspected COPD
• COPD-exacerbation

Exclusion Criteria:

• other causes of dyspnea
• unable to perform CT pulmonary angio (contrast allergy, pregnancy)
• already included in the study (each patient included only once)
• use of anticoagulants