Andrey Nailor, M.D.·Published 5 May 2005·4 min read
Key points
This type of stroke is a loss of brain function caused by Blood clots that develop in the heart and travel to the brain.
Stroke involves loss of brain functions (neurologic deficits), caused by a loss of blood circulation to areas of the brain.
The examination will determine the specific deficits present, which often correspond closely to the location of the injury in the brain.
In all cases, the sooner treatment is given, the better the likely outcome and the lower the chance of permanent disability or death.
Alternative names
Stroke secondary to atrial fibrillation
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.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
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:
Consciousness changes: o Sleepy o Stuporous, somnolent, lethargic o Comatose, unconscious
Signs and tests
The examination will determine the specific deficits present, which often correspond closely to the location of the injury in the brain. The examination may show the following:
changes in vision or visual fields
clots in the retina of the eye
changes in reflexes including abnormal reflexes or abnormal extent of "normal" reflexes
abnormal eye movements
muscle weakness
decreased sensation
The pulse may be irregular. Abnormal sounds may be heard by listening to the heart with a stethoscope. There may be signs of emboli (splinter hemorrhages).
ECG showing arrhythmia, such as atrial fibrillation
Echocardiogram to determine other heart disorders
Transcranial doppler (ultrasound of the head)
Treatment
Stroke is a serious condition. In all cases, the sooner treatment is given, the better the likely outcome and the lower the chance of permanent disability or death.
Treatment varies depending on the severity of symptoms. For virtually all strokes (including this kind), there is a need for hospitalization, possibly including intensive care and life support.
When the person is seen quickly, thrombolytic therapy may be appropriate in many cases for this kind of stroke. This involves use of a medication that breaks clots and is meant to restore normal blood flow. It is imperative that thrombolytic medication be given within 3 hours of symptom onset, so it is important to get to the hospital quickly.
However, there are strict criteria for eligibility to receive this medication as it also has some risks of significant side effects. If the stroke was caused by bleeding in the brain, and not a clot, this medication can be harmful.
Most patients will be admitted to an intensive care unit for close monitoring. If treatment with thrombolytic therapy is successful, there may be complete resolution of symptoms.
There is no known cure for stroke if someone is not a candidate for this treatment. Treatment is essentially rehabilitation based on the symptoms presented. Treatment is also aimed at prevention of future strokes.
Recovery may occur as other areas of the brain take over functioning for the damaged areas. The goal of treatment is to prevent spread (extension) of the Stroke and to maximize the ability of the person to function.
The underlying heart disorder should be treated as appropriate, including medications to control the heartbeat.
Expectations (prognosis)
Stroke is the third leading cause of death in developed countries.
About one-fourth of people who have a stroke die as a result of the stroke or its complications.
About one-half have long-term disabilities.
About one-fourth recover most or all function.
Complications See Stroke.
Calling your health care provider
Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you have any reason to suspect a stroke may be occurring.
Prevention
Atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias should be treated to prevent clot formation. TIA (transient ischemic attack) should be treated.
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