Cryptogenic stroke, aortic arch atheroma and patent foramen ovale.

Cryptogenic stroke represents a diagnostic challenge. Several conditions have been found to be more frequent in patients with cryptogenic stroke. Aortic arch atheroma (AAA) and patent foramen ovale (PFO) have been shown to be highly prevalent in the adult population, especially in patients with ischemic cerebrovascular events, particularly cryptogenic strokes. In both conditions, clinical relevance and stroke risk are related to age, with AAA being more frequent and severer in patients >55 years, and the relationship between stroke and PFO being stronger in those <55 years of age. This review is focused on the prevalence, risk of stroke and therapeutic strategies in patients with cryptogenic stroke related to AAA or PFO. Copyright 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.