Abstract 16411: Patent Foramen Ovale Combined With Solitary Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation

Abstract

Introduction: A transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) with bubble study is standard during evaluation of patients presenting with cryptogenic stroke to evaluate for the presence of a patent foramen ovale (PFO). However, other uncommon conditions, such as solitary pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (sPAVM), can also present with stroke and abnormal bubble study. We examine a case of a woman who presented with an acute ischemic stroke and was found to have both a PFO and sPAVM. Case: A 64-year-old woman with hypertension presented with acute onset facial droop, left arm paresis, and aphasia. A computed tomography (CT) scan of her head did not show an intracerebral hemorrhage or large vessel occlusion. However, magnetic resonance imaging showed acute infarction of the right thalamus. During initial work up, a chest x-ray was also obtained and there was concern for possible pulmonary malignancy. A subsequent contrast-enhanced CT of her chest revealed a right lower lobe PAVM. A TTE with bubble study showed bubbles in the left atrium, which was attributed to PAVM. Interventional radiology was consulted, and the patient underwent PAVM embolization. TTE was repeated and continued to show bubbles in the left atrium. Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) revealed an atrial septal aneurysm with PFO. After interdisciplinary discussion and shared decision making, she eventually underwent successful transcatheter PFO closure with an Amplatzer PFO occluder. Genetic testing for hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia was negative. Discussion: This case highlights the importance of evaluating for less common causes of stroke such as sPAVMs and multidisciplinary approach to complex cases. The American Heart/Stroke Associations recommend PFO closure for patients presenting with ischemic stroke and no other identifiable cause. However, there is not clear guidance on the management of patients who present with stroke and have both PFO and PAVMs. Although PFOs are commonly ruled out with TTE/TEE and bubble study, there may be utility in also ruling out PAVMs as they are an important and reversible cause of paradoxical emboli. Further studies should the evaluate the management of patients with both PAVM and PFO with a focus on the optimal strategy for sequence of closure.