Any situation that allows a blood clot to form in the body can lead to a pulmonary embolism. clots most of the time forms in the legs, called deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

They can also form elsewhere, especially in the veins of the abdomen, arms, pelvis or even the brain. Over time, the clot can travel to the lungs, completely or partially blocking the blood supply.

Whereas rare In children, there are certain situations when a child can develop a pulmonary embolism. For example, children with congenital heart disease, infection, or a central venous catheter (CVL) for cancer treatment may be at particularly high risk.

Other conditions that put children at risk include:

Age and race can also play a role. A 2017 report suggests that infants, toddlers, and adolescents are more likely to develop PE than children of other ages. The study also suggests that black children are more likely to develop PE than white children.

A study 2021 notes that disparities in health care access and quality may influence the severity and mortality of PE in black populations.

If your child has risk factors and also has breathing problems or complains of chest pain, be sure to be very observant.

Symptoms of PE can include:

That said, experts share that children do not always show these classic signs. Instead, they can be asymptomaticor their symptoms may be nonspecific.

As a result, doctors do not always reach a diagnosis quickly. They may misdiagnose it as pneumonia or heart failure.

Seek emergency care

A pulmonary embolism is a medical emergency. Call emergency services or see a doctor right away if your child develops symptoms associated with PE.

Diagnosing PE in children first involves discussing your child’s medical history and risk factors.

A physical exam can help assess problems with breathing, pain, or related symptoms. But the signs of PE can mimic other illnesses, so certain tests can help your doctor make a specific diagnosis.

CT or MRI imaging is considered the most useful diagnostic tool available today. These tests are also non-invasive and relatively safe. MRIs are particularly safe because they do not expose children to high doses of radiation.

A ventilation/perfusion (VQ) analysis is another option your doctor may suggest. This diagnostic tool can measure:

• how air moves through the lungs
• how and where the blood flows
• where blood flow is blocked

The problem with diagnosis is that many children have few or no symptoms. Therefore, some studies have shown that a diagnosis of PE in children can take as long as 7 days.

Treatment for PE usually involves medications to thin the blood, such as:

Also known as anticoagulant therapy, blood thinners help prevent clots from forming and slow them down.

Other treatment options include:

• Thrombolysis. Also called fibrinolytic therapy, this method involves using drugs to break up existing blood clots.
• Thrombectomy. This minimally invasive surgery physically removes clots from arteries or veins.
• Inferior vena cava (IVC) filter. This device can prevent clots from reaching the lungs. It is generally only used with children weighing more than 22 pounds.

Pediatric patients receive similar treatment as adults with PE. However, your child’s treatment will vary depending on factors including age, medical history, hospital practices and how he responds to each treatment.

Again, since PE is less frequent in children and may not produce noticeable symptoms, some doctors may ignore it as a diagnosis.

In a 2020 case study, 50 percent of children who underwent PE showed signs of the disease, but only a third received a correct initial diagnosis.

With the delay in diagnosis, the mortality rate from pulmonary embolism is around 10 percent in children. When children receive prompt medical diagnosis and care, however, their prospects are good.

Follow-up is extremely important after treatment. experts share that tracking resolution, progression, or risk of recurrence is essential. At least a study shows that black and Hispanic children may be most at risk for recidivism.

Your child’s pediatrician will also use follow-up appointments to monitor any long-term issues that may arise, such as pulmonary hypertension or chronic PE.

Although PE is rare in children, some children may be at higher risk, either due to existing health conditions, their age, or their race.

Classic symptoms may include difficulty breathing or chest pain. But many children have no symptoms or non-specific symptoms, which makes diagnosis difficult.

Fortunately, doctors are becoming more aware of the risks of PE in children so diagnosis can be quicker and treatment can begin earlier, leading to better outcomes.