Bicuspid aortic valve represents the most common congenital heart abnormality. In the absence of endocarditis, the association between bicuspid aortic valve and cerebral ischemia has only recently been suggested. ''Spectacular shrinking deficit’ is a term coined to describe a major hemispheric syndrome that resolves significantly over a short period. It has been associated with cardiogenic embolism. A 46-year-old man presented with a severe nondominant syndrome which spontaneously resolved within 1 h. Noninvasive investigation suggested that a congenital bicuspid aortic valve was the most plausible cause of reversible cerebral ischemia. Patients who present with dramatic though transient ischemic deficits should be investigated for a cardiac source of embolism. Congenital bicuspid aortic valve may be an under-recognized source of embolism in such cases.

Keywords:
Cerebrovascular disorders, Embolism, Congenital heart disease
This content is only available via PDF.
© 1994 S. Karger AG, Basel
1994
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
You do not currently have access to this content.