Work

Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing in People With Dyspnea With a Recent Acute Pulmonary Embolism

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) may provide a helpful tool to assess underlying causes of dyspnea in patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE). However, the response to exercise in the first weeks after diagnosis of an acute PE is currently unknown. Research Question: What are the cardiopulmonary responses to and safety of performing strenuous exercise within 2 to 4 weeks postacute PE? Study Design and Methods: < 2.6, and a ventilatory equivalent for carbon dioxide ≥ 34 at anaerobic threshold or dead space to tidal volume ratio > 30% at peak, and their association with markers of PE severity at diagnosis. Results: < 2.6 in 75%, and ventilatory equivalent for carbon dioxide at anaerobic threshold ≥ 34 or peak dead space to tidal volume ratio > 30% in 49%. In 1 of 7 patients, none of the previously reported signs were present (14%). Intermediate-high risk PE and central PE were associated with increased incidence of these abnormalities. Interpretation: There were no complications when performing strenuous exercise in the first weeks after a PE diagnosis in this study. Despite dyspnea, 1 of 7 patients had adequate cardiopulmonary reserve, suggesting that post-PE symptoms are multifactorial. Intermediate-high risk and central PE were associated with higher incidences of abnormal CPET outcomes. Clinical Trial Registration: Dutch Trial Register; No.: NTR NL9615; URL: https://onderzoekmetmensen.nl/en/trial/54292.

Source: CHEST Pulmonary

DOI: 10.1016/j.chpulm.2025.100164