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Previous Volume 353:630-631 August 11, 2005 Number 6 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: Complex diagnostic algorithms are in vogue for the diagnosis of venous thromboembolism. In yet another management study, Perrier et al. (April 28 issue)¹ propose a combination of multislice computed tomography (CT) and D-dimer measurement as a strategy to diagnose pulmonary embolism, as discussed in an editorial by Goldhaber.²

I am uncomfortable with the suggestion that a strategy that results in a 1-in-50 risk of pulmonary embolism at follow-up is hailed as a breakthrough.

Alexander G.G. Turpie, M.D.
McMaster University
Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
turpiea@mcmaster.ca

1. Perrier A, Roy P-M, Sanchez O, et al. Multidetector-row computed tomography in suspected pulmonary embolism. N Engl J Med 2005;352:1760-1768. [Free Full Text]
2. Goldhaber SZ. Multislice computed tomography for pulmonary embolism -- a technological marvel. N Engl J Med 2005;352:1812-1814. [Free Full Text]

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