Abstract
SummarySpontaneous echo contrast (SEC) is frequently observed in patients with structural and functional cardiovascular abnormalities. Literature describes cases of SEC either from agglutination of red blood cells and plasma proteins or from microcavitations. SEC secondary to the former is an independent predictor of future thromboembolic events and is most commonly observed in the left atrium or left atrial appendage. Thus, many authors reason that left atrial SEC is an indication for initiating anticoagulant therapy. We report a rare case of right atrial SEC that was incidentally found during echocardiographic evaluation of isolated peripheral edema in a healthy adult with a structurally normal heart. At present, there are no studies to offer guidance for management of right atrial SEC. This case emphasizes a necessary area of future research.Learning points Cardiovascular implications of SEC.Diagnostic evaluation and management of SEC.
Highlights
We found that recent laboratory investigations showed a decreased hemoglobin of 7.6 g/dl, hematocrit of 25.8, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of 88.7 and platelet count of 303/mg
We further reviewed testing obtained during hospitalization a year prior for workup of an ischemic cerebrovascular accident (CVA)
Spontaneous contrast on echocardiography is frequently found in patients with atrial fibrillation, mitral stenosis or history of thromboembolism, occurring in 30–60% of such patients [3]
Summary
Spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) is frequently observed in patients with structural and functional cardiovascular abnormalities. SEC secondary to the former is an independent predictor of future thromboembolic events and is most commonly observed in the left atrium or left atrial appendage. Many authors reason that left atrial SEC is an indication for initiating anticoagulant therapy. We report a rare case of right atrial SEC that was incidentally found during echocardiographic evaluation of isolated peripheral edema in a healthy adult with a structurally normal heart. There are no studies to offer guidance for management of right atrial SEC. This case emphasizes a necessary area of future research
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
