Paradoxical embolism, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism in a patient with patent foramen ovale: a case report

Shan Guo , Ingram Roberts and Jose Missri

Department of Medicine, St. Vincent's Medical Center, Bridgeport, CT 06606, USA

author email corresponding author email

Journal of Medical Case Reports 2007, 1:104doi:10.1186/1752-1947-1-104


Published:	25 September 2007

Abstract

Introduction

Coexistence of pulmonary embolism and systemic arterial embolism suggest the diagnosis of paradoxical embolism which suggests the presence of intracardiac defects such as patent foramen ovale (PFO).

Case presentation

A 42 year old man was found to have a paradoxical embolism in the systemic arterial circulation, in the setting of pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the lower extremities.

Conclusion

Paradoxical embolism and intracardiac shunt should be immediately considered in a patient with pulmonary embolism and systemic arterial embolism. Diagnostic modalities included arteriogram and saline contrast echocardiography. Closure of intracardiac shunt is needed for patients who are at risk for recurrent embolic events.