Pulmonary Embolism in Women in the Era of Expanding Advanced Therapies.

Abstract

Purpose of review: To examine sex-specific differences in pulmonary embolism management in the era of expanding advanced therapies.

Recent findings: Women with pulmonary embolism demonstrate unique risk profiles and clinical presentations compared to men. Recent advances in pulmonary embolism management, including Pulmonary Embolism Response Teams, catheter-based mechanical thrombectomy, and reduced-dose thrombolytics, have transformed treatment paradigms. In patients presenting with right ventricular dysfunction or hemodynamic instability, timely intervention and optimal treatment selection are crucial. Current literature, mostly retrospective, signals disparities in diagnostic testing, treatment approaches, and outcomes, despite women presenting with higher prognostic risk stratification. Important sex-based differences exist in risk factors, clinical presentations, diagnosis and management of pulmonary embolism. While contemporary device trials show balanced female representation, female-specific analyses remain limited. Prospective studies are needed to clarify treatment responses in women and establish evidence-based guidelines.