Acute aortic syndromes: aortic dissections, penetrating aortic ulcers and intramural aortic hematomas.

Acute aortic syndromes, including dissections, intramural hematomas and penetrating aortic ulcers, are a catastrophic clinical entity that are relatively uncommon. A high index of clinical suspicion along with proper imaging modalities are critical in making a prompt and accurate diagnosis for immediate management and to improve survival of the patient.