Heart diseases and stroke

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Neurology
• Vascular Medicine

Background:

• A diverse range of cardiac conditions contribute to embolic phenomena, leading to both cerebral and systemic embolisms.
• Atrial fibrillation is a primary cause of cardioembolic stroke, especially in the elderly population.
• Congenital heart defects, like patent foramen ovale, are significant contributors to embolism in younger individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the causes and therapeutic strategies for cardioembolic events.
• To highlight the role of atrial fibrillation and patent foramen ovale in embolic stroke.
• To discuss the challenges and advancements in managing cardioembolic disease.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of heterogeneous heart diseases causing embolism.
• Analysis of etiological factors including atrial fibrillation and patent foramen ovale.
• Evaluation of current and emerging therapeutic approaches for embolism prevention.

Main Results:

• Cardioembolic events stem from varied cardiac pathologies affecting anatomy and physiology.
• Atrial fibrillation represents a major source of cardioembolic stroke, predominantly in the elderly.
• Patent foramen ovale is a key factor in embolic events among younger populations.

Conclusions:

• Effective management requires addressing underlying cardiac disease and implementing embolism prevention strategies.
• Oral anticoagulant therapy is often indicated, but risk-benefit assessment is complex.
• Novel endovascular treatments are emerging, necessitating clinical trials for comparison with established therapies.