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Previous Volume 348:357-359 January 23, 2003 Number 4 Next

	Since this article has no abstract, we have provided an extract of the first 100 words of the full text and any section headings.

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To the Editor: Konstantinides et al. (Oct. 10 issue)¹ evaluated the role of alteplase in patients with submassive pulmonary embolism. Their findings will be regarded by many as definitive evidence in support of the use of thrombolytic agents in such patients. However, a review of the study design, particularly the end points chosen, shows that the data do not support the authors' conclusions.

The only primary end point to show significant improvement was an escalation of treatment for clinical deterioration — nearly always meaning treatment with open-label alteplase, the drug used in the intervention group. The decision to escalate treatment . . . [Full Text of this Article]

This article has been cited by other articles:

• Perlroth, D. J., Sanders, G. D., Gould, M. K. (2007). Effectiveness and Cost-effectiveness of Thrombolysis in Submassive Pulmonary Embolism. Arch Intern Med 167: 74-80 [Abstract] [Full Text]  
• Thabut, G., Logeart, D. (2005). Thrombolysis for Pulmonary Embolism in Patients With Right Ventricular Dysfunction: Con. Arch Intern Med 165: 2200-2203 [Full Text]