[Transesophageal echographic demonstration of ulcerated atheromatous plaques of the thoracic aorta responsible for cholesterol emboli].

The authors present of case of a 61-year-old man suffering from cholesterol emboli, in whom transoesophageal echocardiography revealed complex atheromatous lesions of the thoracic aorta. There is growing emphasis, at the present time, on the concept of triggering factors with the multiplication of endovascular radiological investigations, the more widespread availability of cardiac surgery and the use of anticoagulants and fibrinolytics. The prognosis is poor, treatment is only palliative and preventive measures are therefore essential.