Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Combined Near-infrared Fluorescent Imaging and Micro-computed Tomography for Directly Visualizing Cerebral Thromboemboli
Published on: September 25, 2016
A rare cause of recurrent cerebral emboli despite oral anticoagulation
Imanuel Dzialowski1, Martin Wolz1, Matthias Meinhardt2
1Department of Neurology, Elblandkliniken, Meissen, Germany.
Abstract:
We report on a patient with a history of colon carcinoma and clinical presentation of recurrent cardiac emboli despite oral anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation. On delayed transoesophageal echocardiography, finally a left atrial myxoma was suspected. Surgery, however, revealed a left atrial metastatic tumour with histopathological features of a colon adenocarcinoma. Metastases of colorectal adenocarcinoma invading cardiac structures are rare. Isolated literature reports describe metastatic masses detected in the right atrium reflecting natural haematogenous spreading of cancer, but none in the left heart.
Related Concept Videos
Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
Disorders of Hemostasis
Thromboembolic Disorders
Two factors primarily cause thromboembolic conditions.
Anticoagulant Drugs: Low-Molecular-Weight Heparins

