A patent foramen ovale (PFO) carries a high risk of paradoxical embolism. This risk is higher in certain conditions, including acute pulmonary embolism (APE). Although most patients with a PFO are asymptomatic, various clinical manifestations may be associated with PFO. Concomitant APE and acute ischemic stroke (AIS) due to paradoxical embolism from a PFO are rare. We report a case of a 61-year-old man who presented with simultaneous PE and AIS in the presence of PFO, was treated successfully with anticoagulation, and was discharged from the hospital neurologically intact.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Alkheder et al. (2024) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: