Ultrasound diagnosis of acute thrombosis of an abdominal aortic aneurysm: a case report

Abstract

Background: Point-of-care ultrasound is an effective and reliable method to diagnosis the presence of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. However, there has been limited literature regarding ultrasound diagnosis of acute aortic thrombosis.

Objective: Discuss a patient case with acute aortic thrombosis diagnosed by point-of-care emergency ultrasound. Review common etiologies and treatment options in this rare diagnosis.

Case report: A patient with a known abdominal aortic aneurysm presented with mottled lower extremities. Point-of-care ultrasound was utilized by her physicians to diagnose acute thrombosis of her abdominal aorta. With conservative treatment the patient survived to hospital discharge.

Conclusion: Aortic thrombosis is a rare and devastating problem that can be diagnosed with point-of-care ultrasound.