Computed tomographic patterns of proven embolic brain infarctions.

To define patterns of infarction on computed tomography that are characteristic of embolism, as opposed to hemodynamically or microangiopathically induced brain lesions, a consecutive series of 60 patients with acute brain embolism were studied. Strokes were embolic in origin; that is, hemodynamic and in situ thrombotic stroke mechanisms had been excluded. Embolically active, cardiac disease was proved in 42 and was clinically evident in 13 patients.