Which of the following is a relative contraindication to thrombolytic therapy?

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Thrombolytic therapy is a treatment used to dissolve blood clots in conditions such as acute myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, and ischemic stroke. While there are absolute contraindications to its use—conditions under which the risks clearly outweigh the benefits—there are also relative contraindications where caution is warranted.

Pregnancy is considered a relative contraindication to thrombolytic therapy because, while the potential benefits of treating a thromboembolic event may still be significant, the risks associated with thrombolysis in pregnant individuals can be elevated. This includes the risk of bleeding, which could affect both the mother and the fetus. In such cases, healthcare providers must weigh the individual circumstances and consider alternative treatments that may be safer during pregnancy.

Active bleeding, recent hemorrhagic stroke, and new aortic dissection are all absolute contraindications because they present a high risk of further bleeding or acute complications that could be life-threatening. Thus, in the context of a pregnant patient with other conditions potentially allowed for thrombolytic use, caution is necessary, making pregnancy a relative contraindication.

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