Two Cases of Thrombus Resolution Unrelated to Large Artery Atherosclerosis or Alteplase Use

Abstract

Thrombus resolution is generally associated with a favorable prognosis. Patients with thrombus resolution often present with erythrocyte-rich thrombi, frequently associated with large artery atherosclerosis or alteplase use. This might explain the increased rate of cervical carotid artery occlusion and reduced incidence of atrial fibrillation in patients with thrombus resolution. However, recent reports have demonstrated that thrombus resolution can occur owing to several etiologies and various factors. We present two cases of thrombus resolution: one associated with internal carotid artery dissection and the other with a left atrial appendage thrombus. Notably, both were considered to be unrelated to large-artery atherosclerosis or alteplase use.