Definition: A type of ischemic stroke that occurs when a blood clot or a cholesterol plaque wanders into the brain and becomes trapped inside an artery. Other, less frequent causes of embolic strokes include:
Embolic Stroke
From Jose Vega M.D., Ph.D., former About.com Guide
Updated September 15, 2008
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
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