Cardiovascular sources of systemic embolism: detection and characterization using multidetector CT and MR imaging.

The purpose of this article is to provide a current review of multidetector CT (MDCT) and MRI findings and imaging protocols for the cardiovascular diseases that can precipitate systemic embolism. These conditions include intracardiac thrombus or tumors, paradoxical embolism through right-to-left shunts, and diseases of the thoracic aorta. MDCT and MRI may be helpful for detection of these conditions. Familiarity with the pathogenesis and CT and MRI appearance of these conditions is important as their detection may have a major impact on patient management.