title: Paradoxical embolism with a patent foramen ovale and atrial septal aneurysm.
abstract: Patent foramen ovale (PFO) and atrial septal aneurysm have been cited as potential risk factors for cryptogenic stroke. We present two cases which we propose to directly illustrate paradoxical embolisation as a mechanism of cerebrovascular accident. The diagnosis of PFO is discussed and the literature reviewed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Cardiology, Chesterman Wing, Northern General Hospital, Herries Road, Sheffield, S5 7AU, UK.
authors.forename: D J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Beacock
authors.forename: V B
authors.initials: VB
authors.lastname: Watt
authors.forename: G D
authors.initials: GD
authors.lastname: Oakley
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Al Mohammad
mesh_terms: D017548:Echocardiography, Transesophageal; D019320:Embolism, Paradoxical / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006322:Heart Aneurysm / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006325:Heart Atria / Q000473:pathology; D006344:Heart Septal Defects, Atrial / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006346:Heart Septum / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012307:Risk Factors