Lower extremity arterial embolism after intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke

Abstract Background Early embolic events may be a rare complication following intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Case presentation: We present two cases of lower extremity arterial embolism occurring shortly after intravenous thrombolysis. Both patients experienced acute occlusion of large arteries and atrial fibrillation and were diagnosed with cardioembolic stroke. The first case was a 49-year-old woman who presented with left limb paralysis. Thrombolysis with alteplase was performed, and five days later, she experienced a lower extremity arterial embolism. The second patient was a 64-year-old man who presented with right limb paralysis. Thrombolysis was performed, and three days later, he experienced a lower extremity arterial embolism. Conclusion Early embolic events may occur following intravenous thrombolysis for AIS, especially in patients with cardioembolic stroke; we should pay attention to this potential complication.