Semin Neurol 2017; 37(03): 326-338
DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1603465
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Cardioembolic Stroke: Mechanisms and Therapeutics

Daniel C. Sacchetti
1   Department of Neurology, Warren Alpert Brown Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island
,
Karen L. Furie
1   Department of Neurology, Warren Alpert Brown Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island
,
Shadi Yaghi
1   Department of Neurology, Warren Alpert Brown Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
31 July 2017 (online)

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Abstract

Cardioembolic stroke accounts for nearly 30% of all known stroke mechanisms. This percentage may be underestimated, however, when considering the large proportion of cryptogenic strokes that likely have a covert cardiac source. Although it is well known that cardioembolic stroke can occur in the setting of atrial fibrillation, other mechanisms such as a systolic heart failure, patent foramen ovale, valvular dysfunction, and aortic arch atheroma are commonly encountered in daily practice. The authors provide an overview on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnostic evaluation, and secondary prevention treatment strategies for cardioembolic stroke.