Acute Aortic Thrombus Presenting as Cauda Equina Syndrome.
1ST2 Radiology Trainee, Princess of Wales Hospital, Bridgend, United Kingdom.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|April 15, 2020
Summary
Occlusive abdominal aortic thrombus can mimic neurological conditions like cauda equina syndrome (CES). Prompt recognition of this rare vascular emergency is crucial for timely intervention and preventing severe outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Neurology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Occlusive abdominal aortic thrombus is a rare but life-threatening emergency.
- Symptoms can mimic other conditions, delaying diagnosis.
- Spinal arterial involvement is a known complication, leading to neurological deficits.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old female presented with back pain, leg weakness, paresthesia, and incontinence.
- Initial investigation focused on cauda equina syndrome (CES).
- Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a large occlusive abdominal aortic thrombus.
Findings:
- Nontraumatic aortic thrombosis can present with neurological symptoms.
- Clinical presentation may be confusing, prioritizing CES evaluation.
- Delayed diagnosis of aortic thrombosis can have catastrophic consequences.
Implications:
- Emergency physicians should consider aortic thrombosis in patients with neurological symptoms.
- Understanding spinal vascular anatomy aids differential diagnosis.
- Early recognition and management of aortic thrombosis are critical.
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