[Several heart conditions are related to increased risk of ischemic stroke and TIA].

Several heart conditions have been related to increased risk of ischemic stroke and TIA. Some require primary prophylaxis with antithrombotic treatment and often the indication for prophylaxis is further increased after an ischemic cerebrovascular event. Oral anticoagulants have an important role in these situations, but also other treatments such as closure of patent foramen ovale, may be useful. Left atrial appendage occlusion in patients with atrial fibrillation and stroke is being evaluated in several ongoing studies. It should be kept in mind that other pathophysiological mechanisms associated with ischemic stroke may occur simultaneously with heart disease and an individual assessment of patients is needed. Here we provide information about current concepts and treatment options in patients with suspected cardioembolic stroke.