Role of Imaging for Suspected Cardiac Thrombus

Abstract

Purpose of review: Cardiac thrombus formation is a frequent complication of a variety of prevalent diseases. Embolism of cardiac thrombus has the potential to result in significant morbidity and mortality from cerebrovascular and peripheral vascular events.

Recent findings: Echocardiography is the most commonly used imaging modality for diagnosing intracardiac thrombus. However, technological advances in computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have allowed newer noninvasive modalities to evolve into robust tools for the clinical evaluation of patients suspected of disease. Complimentary use of these imaging techniques is crucial in the diagnosis of cardiac thrombus and initiation of anticoagulation therapy.

Keywords: Atrial thrombus; Cardiac thrombus; Computed tomography; Echocardiography; Magnetic resonance imaging; Ventricular thrombus.