Aortic dissection presenting as stroke with focal neurologic deficits: A case report

Abstract

Aortic dissection is a relatively uncommon and potentially misdiagnosed disease. Early and accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment are imperative for patient survival. In this case, we present a 55-year-old male who presented to the Emergency Department with severe abdominal pain and acute neurological deficits who was triaged for stroke protocol. After unexpected findings on physical examination, other diagnostic hypotheses were evaluated, culminating in the diagnosis of aortic dissection. The purpose of this article is to exemplify a patient who presents with noteworthy neurologic clinical features who ultimately was diagnosed with Type B aortic dissection, to help benefit the rapid diagnosis and subsequent treatment for future patients with similar presentations.

Keywords

• Type B aortic dissection
• Conversion from Type B to Type A aortic dissection
• Paresthesia
• Hypertension
• Abdominal pain