Abstract
Non-contrast enhanced chest computed tomography (CT) carries a low sensitivity for acute aortic dissection; CT Angiography remains the gold standard. We highlight the potential utility of non-contrast CT for detection of aortic dissection in a case of a young, immunocompromised man presenting with acute abdominal pain and renal injury. Given elevated creatinine, an initial non-contrast chest CT demonstrated subtle findings suggestive of aortic dissection (aneurysmal dilation of the proximal ascending aorta as well as displaced calcified intimal flap/ intraluminal high linear density in the thoracic descending and distal abdominal aorta). Subsequent CT angiography confirmed the presence of an extensive type A aortic dissection. He underwent emergent exploratory laparotomy and hemiarch repair. Displaced calcified intimal flaps, intraluminal high-densities, intramural hematoma, and aneurysmal aortic dilation are common non-contrast computed tomography imaging findings that suggest aortic dissection.
Recommended Citation
Spangenberg, Amelie; Rao, Shiavax J.; Mackrell, John; Rimm, Sarah; and Haas, Christopher James
(2023)
"Type A Aortic Dissection and Non-Contrast Computed Tomography,"
Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives: Vol. 13:
Iss.
3, Article 23.
DOI: 10.55729/2000-9666.1178
Available at:
https://scholarlycommons.gbmc.org/jchimp/vol13/iss3/23
