Copyright © 2007, The European Society of Cardiology
Application of contrast echocardiography in the evaluation of a right-sided vegetative lesion
Division of Cardiology, Noninvasive Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365A Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
Received 20 May 2006; received in revised form 28 July 2006; accepted after revision 11 August 2006.
* Corresponding author. Tel.: +1 404 778 5414; fax: +1 404 778 3540. stam.lerakis{at}emoryhealthcare.org
| Abstract |
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Transesophageal echocardiography has significantly improved the detection of vegetative lesions, including those associated with indwelling central venous lines. However, in certain cases, the increased mobility of these lesions as well as the presence of indwelling catheters obscure the precise delineation of their origin and the detection of attachment to adjacent structures. We report a case of right-sided endocarditis in which the use of contrast was instrumental to the comprehensive evaluation of the lesion and to subsequent patient management.
Keywords: Contrast echocardiography; Transesophageal echocardiography; Endocarditis; Indwelling catheters; Right atrium