title: Paradoxical embolism.
abstract: Paradoxical embolism is an important clinical entity among patients with venous thromboembolism in the presence of intracardiac or pulmonary shunts. The clinical presentation is diverse and potentially life-threatening. Although the serious nature and complications of paradoxical embolism are recognized, the disease entity is still rarely considered and remains under-reported. This paper provides an overview on the different clinical manifestations of paradoxical embolism, describes the diagnostic tools for the detection of intracardiac and pulmonary shunts, reviews therapeutic options, and summarizes guideline recommendations for the secondary prevention of paradoxical embolism.
authors: Swiss Cardiovascular Center Bern, Department of Cardiology, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland. Electronic address: stephan.windecker@insel.ch.
authors: Stephan
authors: S
authors: Windecker
authors: Swiss Cardiovascular Center Bern, Department of Cardiology, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland.
authors: Stefan
authors: S
authors: Stortecky
authors: Swiss Cardiovascular Center Bern, Department of Cardiology, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland.
authors: Bernhard
authors: B
authors: Meier
mesh_terms: D002545:Brain Ischemia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D003952:Diagnostic Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D019320:Embolism, Paradoxical / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology; D014943:Global Health; D006330:Heart Defects, Congenital / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology; D006801:Humans; D009017:Morbidity / Q000639:trends; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D012307:Risk Factors
keywords: embolism; paradoxical; patent foramen ovale; stroke