Diagnosis and management of acute thoracic aortic dissection: A case study

Introduction: Aortic diseases, such as acute thoracic aortic dissection type A (ATAAD), are life-threatening conditions that require prompt diagnosis and treatment. This condition exhibits high mortality, particularly due to its unpredictable nature and clinical variability. Although it primarily affects elderly men, female patients often present with atypical symptoms, complicating diagnosis and treatment approaches. This study presents a clinical case of a female patient under 60 years of age diagnosed with ATAAD. Aim: Presentation of a case with a female patient highlighting the importance of early diagnosis, multidisciplinary care, and a holistic approach. Case Presentation: A 58-year-old woman with a medical history of rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, and dyslipidemia presented with sharp chest pain and was urgently transferred to a University Hospital. Her clinical condition included hypoxia and severe hypotension. Investigations revealed elevated troponin levels, and the diagnosis of aortic dissection was confirmed via computed tomography and echocardiography. The patient underwent immediate surgical operation. Postoperatively, she had bleeding and she was hemodynamically unstable, which were successfully managed. Gradually, her condition stabilized, and she began a rehabilitation program. The multidisciplinary team provided psychological support to the patient and educated her about her new health condition. The patient was hospitalized for 50 days, 30 of which were in the Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Unit, and then transferred to a rehabilitation center.