Do low-risk patients really need follow-up after a pulmonary embolism?

Background: The British Thoracic Society recommend that pulmonary embolism (PE) patients with low-risk Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (PESI) scores are considered for outpatient (OP) management, in settings where robust pathways for follow-up and monitoring exist.

Methods: Retrospective cohort study. We reviewed the electronic records of 109 consecutive PE patients considered appropriate for OP management.

Effects of tiotropium and other long acting bronchodilators in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) accounts for a major workload in both primary and secondary care. It is characterised by progressive airflow obstruction which does not fully reverse to inhaled or oral pharmacotherapy. The diagnosis should be considered in any current or former smoker who has symptoms of breathlessness, wheeze, cough, sputum production and impaired exercise tolerance.