Dysarthria-clumsy hand syndrome and multiple sequential acute limb embolisms as a form of presentation of aortic arch embolism.

Abstract

Introduction: Aortic arch complex atheromatosis is a source of cerebral embolism. A percentage of lacunar infarct could be of embolic etiology, especially due to microemboli of the aortic arch.

Case report: We present the case of a 63-year-old hypertensive man suffering from dysarthria-clumsy hand syndrome for a right hemispheric minor ischemic stroke. The patient developed sequential acute thromboembolism of the left lower and right upper limbs. Computed tomography angiography revealed an aortic arch thrombus. Vascular surgery was successfully performed.

Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of considering embolic sources in lacunar syndromes, especially at the level of the aortic arch.