Chronic venous disease of the lower extremities as a risk factor for PE when taking combined oral contraceptives: a clinical case

The use of combined oral contraceptives (COCs) is one of the risk factors for thrombotic complications, particularly pulmonary embolism (PE). Although clinical observations suggest that the risk of thrombotic complications with OCs is low and decreases after several months of use, medical counseling is necessary as with any other hormonal therapy. A clinical case of PE in a young patient taking COCs is presented. In the context of early diagnosis, thrombolysis was successful because thrombus retraction had not yet occurred. After completion of treatment of the underlying pathology, the patient was recommended to be followed up with a vascular surgeon for treatment of lower limb venous disease. Exclusion of lower extremity venous disease is critical before prescribing COCs, as it increases the risk of PE at any age.