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Simultaneous Right and Left Atrial Appendage Thrombus in a Patient with Atrial Fibrillation: A Lesson to Remember
Carlos D Davila1, Natesa G Pandian2
1Department of Medicine, Einstein Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Insights
This case study highlights simultaneous thrombi in both the right and left atrial appendages of a patient with atrial fibrillation. Comprehensive echocardiography is crucial for detecting these bilateral thrombi, especially with new exclusion devices.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation commonly leads to thrombus formation in the left atrial appendage.
- Bilateral atrial appendage thrombi are less commonly reported but clinically significant.
Abstract:
We report a case of simultaneous right and left atrial appendage thrombi in a 76-year-old-man with atrial fibrillation. Although transesophageal echocardiography is considered a routine diagnostic procedure, complete and comprehensive visualization of both atrial appendages is of paramount importance, particularly with the introduction of new therapeutic options like left atrial appendage exclusion devices. We expect to raise awareness among clinicians of the prevalence and implications of bilateral atrial appendage thrombi in common clinical practice.
