Paradoxical embolism

J Am Coll Cardiol. 2014 Jul 29;64(4):403-15. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2014.04.063.

Abstract

Paradoxical embolism is an important clinical entity among patients with venous thromboembolism in the presence of intracardiac or pulmonary shunts. The clinical presentation is diverse and potentially life-threatening. Although the serious nature and complications of paradoxical embolism are recognized, the disease entity is still rarely considered and remains under-reported. This paper provides an overview on the different clinical manifestations of paradoxical embolism, describes the diagnostic tools for the detection of intracardiac and pulmonary shunts, reviews therapeutic options, and summarizes guideline recommendations for the secondary prevention of paradoxical embolism.

Keywords: embolism; paradoxical; patent foramen ovale; stroke.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Ischemia* / diagnosis
  • Brain Ischemia* / epidemiology
  • Brain Ischemia* / etiology
  • Diagnostic Imaging / methods*
  • Embolism, Paradoxical* / complications
  • Embolism, Paradoxical* / diagnosis
  • Embolism, Paradoxical* / epidemiology
  • Global Health
  • Heart Defects, Congenital* / complications
  • Heart Defects, Congenital* / diagnosis
  • Heart Defects, Congenital* / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Morbidity / trends
  • Myocardial Infarction* / diagnosis
  • Myocardial Infarction* / epidemiology
  • Myocardial Infarction* / etiology
  • Risk Factors