Stroke from Cardiogenic Embolism

How is the condition diagnosed?

Cranial MRIs and cranial CT scans may be ordered to show the type, size, and location of the stroke.

If the stroke is due to a cardiogenic embolus, the embolus can usually be diagnosed with a standard echocardiogram. An echocardiogram uses ultrasound waves to visualize the heart as it is beating. Blood clots in the heart can often be seen using this test.

Occasionally, transesophageal echocardiography may be required. In a standard echocardiogram, the X-ray probe is placed on the skin of the chest wall. With transesophageal echocardiography, the X-ray probe is placed through the patient's mouth into the food tube, or esophagus, to get a different view of the heart.