[Paradoxical embolism due to a persistent patent foramen ovale. Report of one case]

Eric Fuentes Latorre1, Bárbara Vidal Hagemeijer2

  • 1CR cardiología, Hospital regional de Talca, Chile.

Revista Medica De Chile
|February 7, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO), a common heart defect, can lead to paradoxical emboli. This case highlights PFO detection during ischemic stroke evaluation, leading to successful treatment and recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Neurology
  • Medical Diagnostics

Background:

  • Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is a frequent congenital heart defect in adults, affecting 25-30% of middle-aged individuals.
  • PFO can be a source of paradoxical embolic events, leading to conditions like ischemic stroke.

Observation:

  • A 45-year-old male presented with an ischemic stroke due to left internal carotid artery occlusion.
  • Echocardiography revealed a Patent Foramen Ovale with an echogenic structure traversing it, suggesting a source of embolism.

Findings:

  • Thrombectomy was successfully performed to address the carotid artery occlusion.
  • The detection of PFO prompted the initiation of anticoagulant therapy.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of investigating PFO in patients experiencing cryptogenic ischemic strokes.
  • Timely diagnosis and appropriate management, including anticoagulation, can lead to favorable patient outcomes.
  • Identifying PFO as an embolic source is crucial for preventing recurrent cerebrovascular events.

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