Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 7, 2026
06:26
Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection
Published on: March 28, 2025
Painless acute aortic dissection presenting as left lower extremity weakness and numbness
Somsupha Kanjanauthai1, Tony Kanluen
1Department of Internal Medicine, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI 48202, United States. somsupha@hotmail.com
Heart, Lung & Circulation
|February 26, 2008
Summary
Painless acute aortic dissection can mimic neurological emergencies. This case highlights the importance of considering aortic dissection in patients with unexplained limb weakness and numbness.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Acute aortic dissection (AAD) typically presents with severe chest or back pain.
- Atypical presentations of AAD, particularly those without pain, are less common but critical to recognize.
Observation:
- A case of painless AAD presenting with acute neurological symptoms is described.
- The patient experienced left lower extremity weakness and numbness as the primary symptoms.
Findings:
- Neurological deficits resulted from vascular occlusion secondary to aortic dissection.
- Peripheral ischemic neuropathy was the mechanism underlying the observed symptoms.
Implications:
- Acute aortic dissection should be included in the differential diagnosis for acute neurological syndromes.
- Early consideration of AAD in atypical presentations can improve patient outcomes and reduce diagnostic delays.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation
Clinical manifestationsPeripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) manifests through a range of symptoms, from the characteristic intermittent claudication to atypical presentations and severe complications in advanced stages. Intermittent claudication, a hallmark symptom of PAD, presents as exercise-induced muscle pain that typically resolves within minutes of rest. This pain is reproducible and stems from inadequate blood flow, leading to the accumulation of lactic acid produced during anaerobic...
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
01:30Peripheral Artery Disease I: Introduction
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) predominantly results from atherosclerosis, which involves the accumulation of fatty deposits, or plaques, within the walls of arteries. This causes them to narrow and harden, significantly reducing blood flow. PAD predominantly affects the legs, particularly the arteries supplying the thighs and calves. In rare cases, it may involve other arteries, including those in the arms.Etiology of PAD:The principal cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, which results from fatty...
01:26Peripheral Artery Disease IV: Nursing Management
The nursing management of a patient with peripheral artery disease (PAD) begins with a thorough assessment of the patient’s health history and clinical manifestations.AssessmentHealth History: Evaluate the patient’s history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, family history of cardiovascular issues, and lifestyle factors such as dietary patterns, smoking, and physical activity.Physical Examination:Assess the affected extremity for decreased or absent peripheral pulses, temperature changes,...
01:23Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
During the postoperative period, it is crucial to focus on maintaining circulation, identifying and managing potential complications, and planning for discharge.Nursing AssessmentVital signs monitoring: Regularly monitor vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature, to detect early signs of complications such as bleeding and infection.Circulation assessment: Monitor pulses, perform Doppler assessments, and check capillary refill, color, temperature, and...
01:29Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction
Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a thrombus, fat or air embolus, amniotic fluid, or tumor tissue blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. These blockages originate in the venous system or the right side of the heart.EtiologyPE primarily arises from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other hypercoagulable states, such as inherited thrombophilias. Additional etiological factors include venous stasis, commonly seen in obesity, and endothelial injury from surgery and trauma. Less common causes include...