The evaluation of a dissecting thoracic aneurysm begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with a dissecting thoracic aneurysm may include:

• Diastolic heart murmur
• Unequal pulses in the arms
• Unequal blood pressures in the arms and legs

Tests are required to make the diagnosis of dissecting thoracic aneurysm.

Tests that may be used to evaluate dissecting thoracic aneurysm include:

• Complete blood count
• Liver profile
• Kidney profile
• Coagulation profile
• Cardiac enzymes
• Chest x-ray
• Electrocardiogram
• Echocardiogram:
• Transesophageal echocardiography: the transducer is passed down the esophagus (more sensitive test)
• Transthoracic echocardiography: the transducer is applied to the outside of the chest
• MRI scanning of the chest
• CT scanning of the chest:
• A more sensitive method
• Aortography:
• An angiogram of the aorta
• Contrast dye is injected into the aorta and x-rays are performed

For more information:

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm evaluation
• Aortic rupture evaluation