Abstract
Case presentation
A 46-years old female with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was admitted to hospital care after the manifestation of a tonic-clonic generalized seizure. Since this had been the first neurological event, a thorough diagnostic work-up was performed. CT- and MRI-imaging of the brain revealed cerebral microangiopathy and two small fresh ischemic lesions in the left frontal and temporobasal regions, respectively. While the microangiopathy could be reconciled with cerebral SLE-vasculitis, the ischemic lesions pointed to thromboembolism whose source could be potentially cardiogenic.
Findings. In fact, the transesophageal echocardiogram showed a small vegetation (5x8 mm) on the posteromedial cusp of the posterior mitral leaflet (P3) with moderate regurgitation, likely to represent Libman-Sacks endocarditis and a potential source of systemic embolization. In addition, a mass of was visible protruding from the fossa ovalis into the right atrium, see figure. It represented a thrombus according to MRI which was subsequently performed. Since no interatrial passage of microbubbles occurred, the foramen ovale was unlikely to be patent and to allow for paradoxical embolism into the brain. However, the right atrial thrombus was compatible with a history of repeated deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in the recent past.
Discussion
This case exemplifies the combination of Libman-Sacks endocarditis on the mitral valve with right atrial thrombus formation and ensuing embolism both into the venous and arterial system. It demonstrates the importance of closely monitoring and treating coagulopathies in SLE patients which makes them prone to thrombus formation both in the systemic and pulmonary circulation.
Abstract P1702 Figure.
Giant, pedunculated right atrial thrombus formation after surgical atrial septal defect repair
