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[Recurrent cerebral emboli in nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis].
1Neurologische Klinik, Universität Heidelberg.
Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|November 6, 1987
Summary
A rare case of bronchoalveolar carcinoma complicated by nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis led to multiple cerebral infarcts and death. This highlights the association between malignancy and generalized thrombosis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neurology
- Pathology
Background:
- Malignant tumors are associated with hypercoagulable states.
- Nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) is a rare condition characterized by sterile vegetations on heart valves.
- NBTE can lead to arterial emboli and venous thromboses, presenting as a generalized thrombosis disposition.
Observation:
- A 28-year-old woman presented with migratory thrombophlebitis and neurological deficits including right hemiparesis and motor aphasia.
- Imaging revealed a lung mass, later diagnosed as bronchoalveolar carcinoma via transbronchial biopsy.
- The patient experienced recurrent cerebral infarcts, ultimately leading to death.
Findings:
- Autopsy confirmed nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis as the cause of cerebral infarcts.
- The findings demonstrated a direct link between bronchoalveolar carcinoma and NBTE.
- The case illustrated NBTE's role in arterial embolism and widespread venous thrombosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering NBTE in patients with malignancy and thromboembolic events.
- Early recognition and management of NBTE may improve outcomes in cancer patients.
- Further research into the mechanisms linking cancer and thrombosis is warranted.