Stroke from Cardiogenic Embolism
Alternate Names : Brain Attack
How is the condition diagnosed?
Cranial MRIs and
cranial CT
scans may be ordered to show the type, size, and location of the
stroke.
If the stroke is due to a cardiogenic embolus, the embolus can usually be
diagnosed with a standard echocardiogram. An echocardiogram uses
ultrasound waves to visualize the heart as it is beating. Blood clots in the
heart can often be seen using this test.
Occasionally, transesophageal echocardiography may be required. In a standard
echocardiogram, the X-ray probe is placed on the skin of the chest wall. With
transesophageal echocardiography, the X-ray probe is placed through the
patient's mouth into the food tube, or esophagus, to get a different view of
the heart.
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