QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Marfan's Syndrome is a connective tissue disorder that is associated with an increased risk of aortic dissections. It occurs as a result of a point mutation in the fibrillin gene, preventing the normal deposition of elastin in the extracellular matrix. Other significant risk factors for aortic dissection are hypertension and valvular heart disease.
10003986
a
Marfan's Syndrome
QuestionChoice
The most likely diagnosis in this patient is aortic dissection. The main risk factors for this condition are hypertension, connective tissue disease, e.g. Marfan's syndrome, and valvular heart disease. Some studies have suggested that diabetes is actually a protective factor against aortic dissection.
10003987
b
Diabetes
QuestionChoice
The most likely diagnosis in this patient is aortic dissection. The main risk factors for this condition are hypertension (not hypotension), connective tissue disease, e.g. Marfan's syndrome, and valvular heart disease.
10003988
c
Hypotension
QuestionChoice
Normally the aortic valve is tricuspid, with a bicuspid aortic valve being a congenital heart defect. The most likely diagnosis in this patient is aortic dissection. The main risk factors for this condition are hypertension (not hypotension), connective tissue disease, e.g. Marfan's syndrome, and valvular heart disease (such as a bicuspid aortic valve).
10003989
d
Tricuspid aortic valve
QuestionChoice
The most likely diagnosis in this patient is aortic dissection. The main risk factors for this condition are hypertension (not hypotension), connective tissue disease, e.g. Marfan's syndrome, and valvular heart disease. Aortic dissections usually present in men over the age of 50.
10003990
e
Younger age
Concept
Chapter
2693
3707
Aortic Dissection
Topic
134
Cardiology
13344
A 63-year-old male presents to the Emergency Department with acute onset severe chest pain that radiates to the back. He describes it as a "tearing" pain. His blood pressure is 96/62 and his heart rate is 109. The chest x-ray shows a widened mediastinum. An urgent CT aortogram is ordered.

Considering the most likely diagnosis, which of the following is a risk factor for this condition?
a