Aortic dissection
Aortic Dissection
Aortic dissection (/eɪˈɔːrtɪk dɪˈsɛkʃən/) is a serious condition in which the inner layer of the aorta, the large blood vessel branching off the heart, tears. Blood surges through the tear, causing the inner and middle layers of the aorta to separate (dissect).
Etymology
The term "aortic dissection" is derived from the Latin "aorta" meaning 'the great artery', and the Latin "dissectio" meaning 'a cutting apart'.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms of aortic dissection may mimic those of other diseases, often leading to delays in diagnosis. These symptoms include sudden severe chest or upper back pain, loss of consciousness, shortness of breath, and symptoms of a stroke.
Causes
Aortic dissection is caused by a tear in the inner layer of the aorta. More rarely, aortic dissection can occur as a complication of certain medical procedures, such as cardiac catheterization.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of aortic dissection is confirmed through imaging tests, which may include a computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or transesophageal echocardiogram.
Treatment
Treatment of aortic dissection may include surgery or medications, depending on the location of the dissection and the patient's overall health.
Related Terms
- Aorta
- Cardiac catheterization
- Computed tomography (CT) scan
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Transesophageal echocardiogram
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Aortic dissection
- Wikipedia's article - Aortic dissection
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