The Evolving Role and Use of Echocardiography in the Evaluation of Cardiac Source of Embolism

This report will review the role of echocardiography in the diagnosis of cardiac sources of embolism. Embolism of cardiac origin accounts for around 15%–30% of ischemic strokes. The diagnosis of a cardioembolic source of stroke is frequently uncertain and relies on the identification of a potential cardiac source of embolism in the absence of significant autochthonous cerebrovascular occlusive disease. Transthoracic and/or transesophageal echocardiography serves as a cornerstone in the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of these patients. This article reviews potential cardiac sources of embolism and discusses the role of echocardiography in clinical practice. Recommendations for the use of echocardiography in the diagnosis of cardiac sources of embolism are given including major and minor conditions associated with the risk of embolism.