Presenting symptoms: thoracic pain radiating between scapulae
Medical History Risk factors:
- Hypertension
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Atherosclerosis
- Smoking/Alcohol/Cocaine use
- Aneurysm
- Recent Cardiothoracic surgery
- Bicuspid Aortic Valve
- Coartatio
- Collagen disease, Marfan/Ehler-Danlos
- Vasculitis
Clinical history: acute ripping or tearing sensation in the thorax or abdomin, with pain radiating to the back. 10% of patients do not have complaints! People are dyspnoiec and can have neurological symptoms (loss of muscle function).
Medical examination:
- >20 mm Hg difference in SBP between arms
- Diastolic murmur because of Aortic Insufficiency
- Cardiogenic shock
- Tamponade
- Neurological deficit
Laboratory examination:
- Low D-dimer excludes aorta
- Cardial enzymes elevated
Radiological examination:
- X-thorax: broad mediastinum, pleural fluid, cardiomegaly
- CT-angio thorax: dissection
- Echo -cardiography: aortic valve insufficency
Differential diagnosis: ACS, PE, CVA, pericarditis, pancreatitis, oesofagus rupture and more
Treatment:
- Type A: Cardiothoracic surgery
- Type B: Normotension, with Beta Blockers IV
Always suspect a Dissection when you find a patient with cardial symtpoms and neurological symptoms.