Unmasking aortic dissection in patients of transient global amnesia: case report and diagnostic algorithm for the emergency department. (25th January 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Colotto, M; Maranghi, M; Epifania, A; Totaro, M; Giura, R; Durante, C
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 2011
• Publication Date: 2011-01-25
• Subjects: Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr.07.2010.3151
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : It is not unusual for doctors working in the emergency department (ED) to diagnose a benign syndrome of transient global amnesia (TGA). It is rare that the TGA patient is in danger of life because of a 'forgotten' acute aortic dissection (AAD). The present article deals with one of such rare cases of association between TGA and AAD, which presented laboratory findings never reported before. A practical diagnostic algorithm has also been drafted to help ED physicians facing such a puzzling situation.