Patent Foramen Ovale Closure for Nonstroke Indications.

The patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a flap or tunnel-like communication in the atrial septum present in 20% to 34% of the adult population. In most cases, it is a benign finding and poses no health risk. However, some PFOs may provide a conduit for bloodborne materials, such as thrombi, vasoactive substances, or air to pass into the systemic circulation causing a paradoxical embolus.

Rapid Fire: Pericardial Effusion and Tamponade.

One of the most common causes of pericardial effusion in the Western world is malignancy. Emergency physicians must maintain vigilance in suspecting pericardial effusion and tamponade in patients with known or suspected malignancy who present with tachycardia, dyspnea, and hypotension. Diagnosis can be expedited by key physical examination, electrocardiogram, and sonographic findings.

Rapid Fire: Central Nervous System Emergencies.

Neurologic complications are unfortunately common in oncology patients, with many presenting to the emergency department for diagnosis and management. This case-based review provides a brief overview of the key points in pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of 2 oncologic central nervous system emergencies: malignant spinal cord compression and intracranial mass.