Rare Case of False Lumen Thrombus Following Carotid Artery Plaque Rupture: An Ultrasound Diagnosis

Stroke is a leading cause of death and a significant global health concern, ranking as the second leading cause of mortality worldwide (1). Stenosis of the extracranial segment of the internal carotid artery plaque, often caused by atherosclerosis, contributes to a substantial proportion of stroke cases, accounting for approximately 15-20% (2). The underlying mechanism in most ischemic strokes involves the rupture of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques with fibrous caps in the carotid artery, leading to embolism (3-5). While the development of a false lumen thrombus (FFT) following carotid artery plaque rupture is an uncommon occurrence, its detection through ultrasound imaging is even rarer. This case report aims to shed light on this infrequent phenomenon by presenting a case where FFT was diagnosed through ultrasound following carotid artery plaque rupture.