What is Acute Aortic Syndrome (AAS) ? Chest pain associated with the aorta May produce stomach/abdominal symptoms in some individuals (nausea, vomiting, pain in abdominal area) Symptoms may range from mild to extremely severe Caused by a distended aortic wall in distress Aortic tissue may tear or completely rupture Who has AAS ? Any one with an aortic aneurysm or dissection in the chest, typically coupled with hypertension Also includes those with aortic intramural hematoma or penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer How is AAS diagnosed? CT with contrast (CTA) or transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) of the entire aorta MRI/MRA in non-urgent situations EKG and cardiac enzymes usually remain normal - the heart is not implicated Is it a heart attack? No. Could it be the Aorta? Patients who visit doctors' offices or emergency rooms with chest pain or pressure will typically be evaluated for heart disease and possible heart attack. When there is no indication of a heart attack, another important question should be raised: could these symptoms be coming from the aorta? In situations where heart disease is ruled out, rather than next having an aortic evaluation, many patients and families report being questioned about anxiety. An aortic aneurysm or dissection was ultimately found to be the reason for the pain in these cases, sometimes only after the death of the individual. Selected References Following are selected references from the medical literature about AAS CT Imaging in Acute Aortic Syndrome Acute Aortic Syndrome: pathology and therapeutic strategies Rupturing ascending aorta missed in the emergency room. Failure to properly evaluate chest pain in patients who subsequently die. Contact Us Bicuspid Aortic Foundation 30100 Town Center Drive, Suite O-299 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 Telephone Toll free in the US (888) 310-HOPE (4673) or (949) 495-0027 Fax: (949) 606-0413 Email: contactus@bicuspidfoundation.com Copyright © 2004 - 2006, Bicuspid Aortic Foundation. All Rights Reserved. The information on the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation website is provided for general informational purposes only. This information is not professional, legal, or medical advice. Any medications, products, or treatment mentioned are presented as information only and do not constitute any recommendation, approval, or endorsement. Any information is general in nature and is not a substitute for medical care. You should contact a physician or other qualified medical professional for advice about all health-related conditions. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation, including its officers, directors, volunteers and any others acting on its behalf, individually and collectively, make no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the contents of this website, including its accuracy, completeness, or reliability. Any links or references to other websites provided on the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation website are made available as a convenience only. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation has not reviewed all of the websites linked to this website and is not responsible for the content of these sites or your use of them. |
Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease |
All aortic aneurysm and dissection in the chest |
For families and medical professionals, by families and medical professionals |
Creating a climate of hope, an atmosphere of caring, and a source of information for
all who are touched by thoracic aortic disease and the medical professionals
who care for them. |
 |
|
|
Creating a climate of hope |
BICUSPID AORTIC FOUNDATION |
Acute Aortic Syndrome |
|
|
|
Acute Aortic Syndrome (AAS) |
Acute Aortic Syndrome |