Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 2, 2026

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance for the Evaluation of Suspected Cardiac Thrombus: Conventional and Emerging Techniques
Published on: June 11, 2019
Marantic endocarditis and adenocarcinoma of unknown primary site
Luis Alberto Schlittler1, Viviane Weiller Dallagasperina, Claudia Schavinski
1Hospital da Cidade de Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil.
Abstract:
Nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) is a disease characterized by deposition of thrombi and fibrin on normal or degenerated cardiac valves in the absence of microorganisms. This condition is more commonly seen in chronic inflammatory states, and is associated with higher incidence of thromboembolic events than infective endocarditis. We report the case of a 63-year old male patient with adenocarcinoma of unknown primary site and systemic embolism.
Insights
Nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) involves fibrin deposits on heart valves without bacteria. This case highlights NBTE in a patient with unknown adenocarcinoma, presenting with systemic embolism.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) is a non-infectious valvular disease.
- NBTE is associated with chronic inflammatory conditions and malignancy.
- It carries a higher risk of thromboembolic events compared to infective endocarditis.
Observation:
- A 63-year-old male presented with systemic embolism.
- The patient had adenocarcinoma of an unknown primary site.
- Cardiac valve examination revealed nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates a link between NBTE and advanced malignancy.
- Systemic embolism was a presenting manifestation of NBTE in this patient.
- The absence of microorganisms confirmed the non-infectious etiology.
Implications:
- NBTE should be considered in patients with malignancy and embolic events.
- Early diagnosis and management of NBTE can prevent further thromboembolic complications.
- This case underscores the importance of investigating embolic phenomena in cancer patients.
Related Concept Videos
Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Endocarditis I: Introduction
Cardiomyopathy I: Introduction and Classification
Metastasis
Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition
The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition or EMT is a developmental process commonly observed in wound healing, embryogenesis, and cancer metastasis. EMT is induced by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) or receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) ligands, which further...
Endocarditis III: Medical Management
Myocarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
