Neurologic Manifestations of Acute Aortic Dissection

A myriad of neurologic presentations of acute aortic dissection have been reported in the literature. Although classic CVA symptoms may occur, nonspecific neurologic symptoms are much more common

These include:

• Classic stroke-like/TIA symptoms
• Encephalopathy (may look like a drug overdose)
• Seizures (ask Mike Abraham about his abdominal pain/seizure case)

Take Home Point:

• Consider the diagnosis of acute aortic dissection in patients with these findings who ALSO HAVE chest, back, or abdominal pain +/- risk factors for the disease (i.e. HTN, family history, Marfans, cocaine, etc.)

References

Elefteriades