A finger-like projection in the carotid artery: A rare source of embolic stroke requiring carotid endarterectomy

Abstract

Atherosclerotic lesions of the extracranial carotid arteries are one of the most common cases of stroke. Rarely, a stroke may result from isolated non-stenotic carotid disease in the absence of systemic manifestations of cardiovascular disease or significant cardiovascular risk factors. We present an unusual case of multiple strokes resulting from a solitary finger-like projection within the posterior wall of the carotid artery in an otherwise healthy patient. This small finger-like projection has a propensity to act as a nidus for thrombus formation and a potential source of cerebral embolism.

Keywords

• stroke
• carotid disease
• carotid endarterectomy
• CVA
• cerebral vascular accident
• cerebral embolism
• carotid arteriogram
• angiogram
• free floating thrombus
• embolus