Newer cardiac sources of embolic stroke

BACKGROUND- Although cardiac embolism has long been recognized as a cause of cerebral ischemia, relatively "new" potential sources of embolism have been recently documented, particularly with the advent of transesophageal echocardiography. REVIEW SUMMARY- In this review, we explore the data and controversies concerning patent foramen ovale and paradoxical embolism, aortic arch atheroma, atrial septal aneurysm, spontaneous echo contrast, valvular strands, and valvular calcification. CONCLUSIONS- Although much has been learned about these potential causes of stroke, considerable uncertainty remains as to underlying mechanism leading to stroke as well as optimal therapy.