Stroke secondary to cardiogenic embolism

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Central nervous system

Stroke secondary to cardiogenic embolism

Definition:

This type of stroke is a loss of brain function caused by blood clots that develop in the heart and travel to the brain.

Alternative Names:
Stroke secondary to atrial fibrillation
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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Stroke involves loss of brain functions (neurologic deficits), caused by a loss of blood circulation to areas of the brain. The specific neurologic deficits vary depending on the location, extent of the damage, and cause of the disorder.

Strokes secondary to cardiogenic embolism are caused by moving blood clots (emboli) that develop in the heart. These clots travel through the bloodstream and become stuck in small arteries in the brain.

This type of stroke typically occurs suddenly, with immediate maximum loss of brain functions. It is not associated with activity levels and can occur at any time.

Heart arrhythmias (which include atrial fibrillation and others) are commonly seen with this disorder, and are often the cause of the embolus. A heart muscle that is not beating strongly or regularly may result in blood stagnating in the heart, causing a clot to form. This may then dislodge and travel upwards to the brain.

Risks for stroke secondary to cardiogenic embolism include the following: