[Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source]

Abstract

A new clinical construct, embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) was established as a therapeutically relevant entity, which are defined as a non-lacunar infarction without proximal arterial stenosis or cardioembolic sources, with a clear indication for anticoagulation, especially with direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC). The possible embolic sources include covert atrial fibrillation, arterial stenosis with <50%, low-risk emboligenic cardiac sources, aortic plaque, cancer-associated, and paradoxical embolism. As its diagnosis is based on exclusive process, ESUS comprises heterogeneous pathologies. Though current Japanese guideline recommends antiplatelets for non-cardioembolic stroke, ESUS may benefits from anticoagulants. Randomized trials testing DOAC for the secondary prevention of ESUS are currently ongoing.