Misdiagnosed acute aortic dissection type A

In the absence of diagnostic imaging, chest pain can represent a diagnostic dilemma, especially, if the patient’s condition requires immediate action. We present a case of a patient with signs of obstructive shock that turned out to result from an acute aortic dissection (AAD) and consequent cardiac tamponade. Before the correct diagnosis was made, myocardial infarction and/or pulmonary embolism were suspected and the patient was treated with antithrombotic and anticoagulant drugs, which are contraindicated in AAD. We discuss the correct procedures and treatment in suspected AAD.

acute aortic dissection, Stanford type A, misdiagnosis

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