International Journal of Medicine Research

Authors
Dr. Sonal Tanwar, Dr. Naresh Sen, Dr. Ashok Jain

Abstract
Aortic dissection is a rare but often catastrophic condition if not diagnosed and managed acutely. Although rare, aortic dissection needs to be in the differential when a young weightlifter presents with chest pain as a delay in diagnosis may be fatal. A young otherwise healthy 23-year-old male who has been using anabolic steroids for a long time developed Type I aortic dissection associated with heavy weightlifting. The patient did not have a recent history of trauma to the chest, no history of hypertension, and no illicit drug use. He presented with severe chest pain radiating to back and syncopal event with exertion during heavy weightlifting 90 kg at a time. Initial vitals were significant for blood pressure of 82/54 mmHg, pulse of 95 beats per minute, respirations of 22 per minute, and oxygen saturation of 93% on room air. Bedside echocardiogram showed aortic root dilatation with dissection of ascending aorta and cardiac tamponade. Computed tomography (CT) scan of chest revealed dissection of ascending aorta was confirmed. Cardiothoracic surgery was done successfully with repair of ascending aorta.