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Document Details :

Title: 'Thrombus in transit'
Subtitle: The role of echocardiography in the diagnosis of massive pulmonary embolism and a review of the literature
Author(s): O'NEILL, James Oliver , IQBAL, Rashid , McGARRY, Kathleen
Journal: Acta Cardiologica
Volume: 57    Issue: 4   Date: August 2002   
Pages: 291-294
DOI: 10.2143/AC.57.4.2005429

Abstract :
The diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolus is often difficult.We present a case history where bedside transthoracic echocardiography provided a rapid and convenient aid to diagnosis by demonstrating a venous “thrombosis in transit” as a spiral shaped mass in the right atrium prolapsing into the right ventricle.
We also review the management and outcome in recent, similar cases. Overall mortality is 33% for pulmonary embolus and associated thrombus in transit.
Transthoracic echocardiography may be a useful tool in the diagnosis of pulmonary embolus.The presence of thrombus in the right heart is a rare finding.The outcome in these patients is determined by the clinical presentation rather than by the identification of thrombus.