Penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Aorta Anatomy | |
| Specialty | Cardiology |
| Causes | Atherosclerosis |
| Diagnostic method | MRI |
A penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer (PAU) is an atherosclerotic lesion that ulcerates, leading to a hematoma forming within the walls of the aorta.[1]
The condition is often associated with thickening of the aortic wall, and can be differentiated from similar conditions (atherosclerotic plaque and a thrombus) through the use of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, though the latter is superior.[2] Transesophageal echocardiography and intravascular ultrasonography may also be used in differentiation.[1]