Recurrent embolism in the course of marantic endocarditis

Ann Thorac Surg. 2005 Jun;79(6):2145-7. doi: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2003.12.024.

Abstract

Marantic or nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) associated with systemic embolism is usually a complication of advanced or terminal malignancies. We report on the case of a 46-year-old woman in whom nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE)-related cerebral embolism was the first clinical sign of ovarian neoplasm, which was diagnosed after cardiac surgery. Marantic endocarditis should alert the physician to make every effort to diagnose the possible background of this clinical phenomenon. Early identification of NBTE, treatment of the underlying disease, and the associated coagulopathy could possibly prevent cardiac surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Blood Coagulation Disorders / complications
  • Endocarditis / etiology*
  • Endocarditis / pathology*
  • Endocarditis / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Embolism / etiology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / complications*
  • Recurrence
  • Thromboembolism / etiology*