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Updated: May 14, 2026

A Thrombotic Stroke Model Based On Transient Cerebral Hypoxia-ischemia
Published on: August 18, 2015
Hemorrhagic cardioembolic stroke secondary to a left ventricular thrombus: a therapeutic dilemma
Khalil Al-Farsi1, Aftab A Siddiqui, Yasser W Sharef
1Consultant, Department of Hematology, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, P.O. Box 35, AlKhodh 123, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.
Insights
Cardiogenic embolism from a left ventricular thrombus caused multiple brain infarctions. A multidisciplinary approach with anticoagulation and monitoring improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Cardiogenic embolism is a primary cause of ischemic stroke, contributing significantly to patient morbidity and mortality.
- Despite advancements, diagnosing and managing complex stroke cases, such as those arising from cardiac thrombi, remains challenging.
Observation:
- A 50-year-old male presented with multi-territory cerebral infarctions.
- The cause was identified as a mobile left ventricular thrombus.
- Hemorrhagic transformation was noted at presentation.
Findings:
- Gradual anticoagulation therapy was initiated.
- A multidisciplinary team approach was employed, involving close clinical monitoring.
- Regular echocardiographic and neuroimaging studies guided management.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of a comprehensive, team-based strategy for managing challenging cardiogenic stroke presentations.
- Effective management can lead to improved therapeutic outcomes even in complex scenarios.
- Early and regular diagnostic imaging is crucial for monitoring treatment response and preventing complications.
Abstract:
Cardiogenic embolism is a major cause of stroke and often leads to significant morbidity and mortality. Despite the recent advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology of stroke and its risk factors, diagnosis and therapy; some case scenarios still present a real challenge for the treating physicians. We report a case of a 50 year old male patient presenting with multi-territory cerebral infarctions due to a left ventricular mobile thrombus complicated with hemorrhagic transformation at the time of presentation. Gradual introduction of anticoagulation coupled with a multidisciplinary team approach advocating careful daily clinical assessment of the patient and regular echocardiographic and neuroimaging studies have resulted in a better management and achievement of therapeutic goals.
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