CT Diagnosis of Paradoxical Embolism via a Patent Foramen Ovale in a Patient with a Pulmonary Embolism and Prominent Eustachian Valve

While there is a high prevalence of patent foramen ovale in adults, paradoxical embolism via a patent foramen ovale is rare. Previous echocardiographic studies indicated that paradoxical embolism might only occur in patients with high-risk features of patent foramen ovale (i.e., large defect size, presence of a Eustachian valve, and high right atrial pressure). Here, we present a case of patent foramen ovale with high-risk CT features for paradoxical embolism.

CT Diagnosis of Paradoxical Embolism via a Patent Foramen Ovale in a Patient with a Pulmonary Embolism and Prominent Eustachian Valve

While there is a high prevalence of patent foramen ovale in adults, paradoxical embolism via a patent foramen ovale is rare. Previous echocardiographic studies indicated that paradoxical embolism might only occur in patients with high-risk features of patent foramen ovale (i.e., large defect size, presence of a Eustachian valve, and high right atrial pressure). Here, we present a case of patent foramen ovale with high-risk CT features for paradoxical embolism.

Relative Risk of Peripheral Arterial Disease for Patients Registered in a Tertiary Referral Centre / 대한혈관외과학회지

PURPOSE: Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is an increasing health problem, as we progress towards an aging society. The diseases known as risk factors of PAD are diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, and dyslipidemia, and PAD occurs consistently in patients with diabetes. The patients with PAD do not receive proper treatment at the proper moment, because PAD is almost asymptomatic, and most of the diagnosis is delayed. We aimed to determine the prevalence, risk factors and co-morbidities of PAD in patients who are managed for DM and hypertension in our referral center. METHODS: Patients with diabetes and hypertension were selected from the Gachon University Gil Hospital. Data of the patients, including demographics and presence of risk factors, were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. For PAD of the low limbs, the ankle-brachial index (ABI) was used, and the PAD of low limbs was defined as or =50% internal CAS. RESULTS: Logistic regression analysis showed that old age (>70) and diabetes were independent risk factors of PAD. As the risk factor number increased, the prevalence of PAD became higher. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of PAD is continuously increasing. Old age and diabetes were independently associated with a high risk of all-cause PAD patients. For timely and proper management of PAD, large-scale research is needed. Based on research, we should make a detailed plan about early screening, and treatment of PAD.