Spontaneous Echocontrast in Left Atrium
Spontaneous Echocontrast in Left Atrium
| 🔢 No. | Spontaneous Echocontrast in Left Atrium🧠 Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | SEC is an echogenic “smoke-like” swirling pattern seen in cardiac chambers. |
| 2 | Most commonly observed in the left atrium and left atrial appendage (LAA). |
| 3 | Caused by red blood cell aggregation (rouleaux formation) due to blood stasis. |
| 4 | Strongly associated with atrial fibrillation and mitral stenosis. |
| 5 | Presence of SEC indicates increased risk of left atrial thrombus formation. |
| 6 | Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is more sensitive than TTE for SEC. |
| 7 | SEC is a pre-thrombotic marker, not merely an incidental finding. |
| 8 | Common in patients with LAA emptying velocity < 20 cm/s. |
| 9 | SEC may precede or coexist with thrombus, especially in the LAA. |
| 10 | Graded based on echogenicity and swirling density (mild, moderate, dense). |
| 11 | Sluggish blood flow and dilated LA are predisposing factors. |
| 12 | Associated with increased CHA₂DS₂-VASc scores in atrial fibrillation. |
| 13 | SEC is an indication for anticoagulation in high-risk AF patients. |
| 14 | Polycythemia and hypercoagulable states may increase SEC echogenicity. |
| 15 | SEC can be mistaken for contrast microbubbles or artifacts if not assessed properly. |
| 16 | TEE imaging of LAA in multiple planes is crucial to confirm SEC. |
| 17 | Persistent SEC despite rhythm control implies ongoing stasis or dysfunction. |
| 18 | SEC has been linked with increased risk of embolic stroke and TIA. |
| 19 | LAA dysfunction can contribute to SEC even in sinus rhythm. |
| 20 | Resolution of SEC after anticoagulation may indicate reduced thrombotic risk. |
What is the finding in the Video?
[A] Dissection of Coronary Sinus
[B] Spontaneous Echocontrast in Left Atrium
[C] Ebstein anomaly
[D] Atrial Septal Defect
