A 2021 study suggests that computed tomographic pulmonary angiography is the “gold standard” test used to diagnose a PE. The screening combines a CT scan with an angiogram.
A CT scan uses special x-ray equipment to create cross-sectional images of your body. An angiogram uses a contrast dye to reveal detailed images of blood flow through the arteries and veins.
Some tests identify the location and size of a blood clot in the lungs. Others help to better evaluate how the heart and lungs are functioning. These tests can sometimes reveal the severity of the PE or rule out a particular cause of symptoms.
Common tests used to diagnose a PE include:
* blood tests
* chest x-rays
* CT scans
* duplex ultrasounds
* MRI scans
* pulmonary angiograms