Paradoxical embolism-report of a case involving four organ systems.
Publication/Presentation Date
7-1-2000
Abstract
Paradoxical embolism through a patent foramen ovale (PFO) can involve multiple organs simultaneously. The most commonly involved sites are the cerebrum and the extremities. Paradoxical embolism to coronary arteries or upper extremities is relatively uncommon. We report a case of acute pulmonary embolism and paradoxical embolism through a patent foramen ovale involving the left upper extremity, brain, and coronary artery. Early diagnosis in the emergency department was made by a trans-esophageal echocardiogram, and the patient was successfully treated with intravenous t-PA and heparin. Patients with acute pulmonary embolism or deep venous thrombosis who also develop signs of systemic embolism should be evaluated for a patent foramen ovale.
Volume
19
Issue
1
First Page
31
Last Page
34
ISSN
0736-4679
Published In/Presented At
Islam, M. A., Khalighi, K., Goldstein, J. E., & Raso, J. (2000). Paradoxical embolism-report of a case involving four organ systems. The Journal of emergency medicine, 19(1), 31–34. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0736-4679(00)00178-5
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences
PubMedID
10863115
Department(s)
Department of Medicine
Document Type
Article