Paraparesis as the major initial presentation of aortic dissection: report of four cases.
Aortic dissection, which typically manifests as sudden tearing or migratory pain, is a well-known medical emergency. However, in 5% of aortic dissection patients, there is no pain. In these patients, the diagnosis depends on the development of neurologic complications. After analyzing the initial symptoms of a series of patients with aortic dissection, we found 4/211 (1.9%) patients suffered from paraparesis. We suggested that the mid- or low thoracic cord be most vulnerable site during acute aortic dissection. This report highlighted the importance of considering the diagnosis of aortic dissection in a patient with a history of acute onset of transient or permanent neurological symptoms in the lower limbs. Whether paraparesis can be an indicator of the prognosis of aortic dissection requires further researches.
Hsu
Yung-Chu
YC
Department of Neurology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan.
Lin
Chou-Ching K
CC
D000368:Aged; D000784:Aortic Dissection / Q000150:complications*; D001014:Aortic Aneurysm / Q000150:complications*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020335:Paraparesis / Q000209:etiology*