VTE refers to thromboembolism in which locations?

• A. DVT in leg vein
• B. Both DVT and PE
• C. PE in pulmonary arterial system
• D. Arterial thrombosis

Answer: (B)

VTE stands for venous thromboembolism, referring to clots that form in the venous system and can travel to the lungs. The classic locations are deep veins of the legs or pelvis (deep vein thrombosis) and the pulmonary arteries (pulmonary embolism) when a venous clot lodges in the lungs. Arterial thrombosis involves arteries and is not considered VTE, since VTE specifically denotes venous origin and embolization to the pulmonary circulation. Thus, DVT and PE together represent the two main manifestations of VTE.