[Recurrent systemic embolism: look for a thrombus in... the thoracic aorta].

Thoracic aortic mural thrombus is a rare entity and potential source of serious systemic emboli. The progress of computed tomography (CT) angiography and the current use of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) after any embolic event have considerably increased the frequency of diagnostic and there is a growing interest about the etiopathogenesis, which is still widely misunderstood. Therapeutic management remains controversial. We present a case of floating thrombus in the thoracic aorta detected by contrast-enhanced CT scan. This thrombus was responsible for two close major embolic events and was therefore managed surgically. Finally, outcome was favorable.