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Calcified False Lumen in Chronic Aortic Dissection

Imaging findings

CT chest shows a very large, aneurysmal aorta in the setting of chronic type B dissection. Pre-contrast CT demonstrates extensive, dense calcification along the outer wall and within the thrombus of the false lumen, which closely mimics contrast enhancement. A separate mediastinal hematoma indicates slow hemorrhage.

Key takeaways

Chronic aortic dissection can lead to progressive aneurysmal dilation of the false lumen. Over time, thrombus within the false lumen can undergo extensive peripheral and internal dystrophic calcification. This calcification is easily seen on non-contrast CT and should not be mistaken for active contrast enhancement.

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