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Updated: Jul 23, 2026
07:15
An Intact Pericardium Ischemic Rodent Model
Published on: September 2, 2021
Dissecting aortic aneurysm manifesting as acute pericarditis
Archives of Internal Medicine
|January 1, 1979
Summary
Sudden death in two patients with coarctation of the aorta was linked to aortic dissection and pericardial tamponade. Early consideration of aortic dissection in coarctation patients with pericarditis is crucial.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is a congenital heart defect often associated with cardiovascular complications.
- Acute idiopathic pericarditis presents with chest pain and pericardial friction rub.
Observation:
- Two patients with known coarctation of the aorta presented with symptoms of acute idiopathic pericarditis.
- Both patients experienced sudden, unexpected death.
Findings:
- Autopsies revealed dissecting aneurysms of the ascending aorta extending into the pericardial space.
- Acute pericardial tamponade was identified as the cause of death in both cases.
Implications:
- Patients with coarctation of the aorta presenting with pericarditis require prompt evaluation for aortic dissection.
- Clinical examination should include palpation of femoral pulses and chest X-ray review for rib notching in young patients with acute pericarditis.
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