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Protruding atheromas in the thoracic aorta and systemic embolization

P A Tunick1, J L Perez, I Kronzon

  • 1New York University Medical Center, New York.

Annals of Internal Medicine
|September 15, 1991
PubMed

Insights

Protruding atheromas in the thoracic aorta are a significant risk factor for embolic events like stroke. Transesophageal echocardiography can identify these atheromas, aiding in diagnosis and prevention strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Neurology
  • Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

  • Systemic embolization is a major cause of stroke and other embolic events.
  • Identifying modifiable risk factors for embolic events is crucial for preventative strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate whether protruding atheromas in the thoracic aorta are an independent risk factor for systemic embolization.

Main Methods:

  • A case-control study was conducted with 122 patients experiencing embolic symptoms and 122 matched controls.
  • Transesophageal echocardiography was used to detect protruding atheromas in the thoracic aorta.

Main Results:

  • Protruding atheromas were strongly associated with embolic symptoms (OR, 3.2; P < 0.001).
  • Atheromas with mobile components were only found in patients with embolic symptoms.
  • Protruding atheromas remained an independent risk factor after accounting for hypertension and diabetes.

Conclusions:

  • Protruding atheromas in the thoracic aorta are a detectable cause of strokes, transient ischemic attacks, and peripheral emboli.
  • Transesophageal echocardiography is a valuable tool for identifying this risk factor.
Abstract

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