# Early Diagnosis of an Atypical Type A Aortic Dissection With Point-of-Care Ultrasound: A Case Report

## TL;DR

This case report shows how point-of-care ultrasound helped diagnose a rare and dangerous aortic dissection quickly in an elderly woman.

## Contribution

The report emphasizes the use of point-of-care ultrasound for early detection of atypical type A aortic dissection.

## Key findings

- Point-of-care ultrasound enabled rapid diagnosis of an atypical type A aortic dissection.
- Diagnostic scores like the aortic dissection detection risk score can aid in identifying dissection risk.
- Early diagnosis is critical to reducing mortality in aortic dissection cases.

## Abstract

Aortic dissection is a rare but potentially fatal condition, characterized by a high mortality rate where every minute of delay in treatment counts. Its diagnosis remains challenging due to its often atypical clinical presentation. This case report presents an atypical case of type A aortic dissection in a 75-year-old female patient, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis facilitated by point-of-care ultrasound and emphasizing the value of its use in suspected aortic dissection regardless of the clinical probability. Additionally, this report reviews the risk factors for misdiagnosis and underscores the utility of diagnostic scores such as the aortic dissection detection risk score.