Correct!
4. The frontal chest radiograph shows no significant findings
The chest radiograph shows elevation of the left diaphragm with associated left basilar atelectasis. While not a normal finding, it is unlikely this abnormality is responsible for the patient’s presenting complaints. No lung nodules are present, nor is multifocal consolidation [some mild opacity at the left base- likely related to atelectasis due to the elevated left diaphragm- is present]. The mediastinal contours are within normal limits. No pleural effusion is seen.
The emergency room physician was suspicious for thoracic aortic dissection, given the past medical history of hypertension in combination with upper back pain.
Which of the following is the most appropriate next step for the evaluation of this patient? (Click on the correct answer to proceed to the third of eight panels)