[A retinal embolism subsequent to atheroma in aortic arch].

PURPOSE/METHOD: We studied a patient whose embolic retinal occlusion originated in a free floating thrombus detached from an atheromatous plaque sited in the aortic arch.

RESULTS/CONCLUSIONS: Atheroma in the ascending aorta artery and its arch can be a potential source of emboli in patients suffering of retinal embolism. Atherosclerotic lesions in thoracic aorta may be shedding free floating detachments on to the lumen of the artery with severe risk of peripheral embolism. These lesions can be detected by trans-esophageal echocardiography in thoracic areas of the aorta and may become an option when thrombus sources in cardiac ot carotid artery are not clearly identified.