The diagnostic value of transthoracic ultrasonographic features in predicting malignancy in undiagnosed pleural effusions: a prospective observational study.

Background: Transthoracic ultrasound (US) is an important instrument to identify pleural effusions and safely conduct invasive procedures. It also allows systematic scanning of the pleural surface, though its value remains uncertain for differentiation between malignant (MPE) and nonmalignant pleural effusion (non-MPE) in routine clinical practice.

Objectives: To evaluate the utility of US features to predict malignancy in undiagnosed pleural effusions in a real-life clinical setting.

New classification of aortic dissection with reference to a case report.

The authors present a case report of a patient who was diagnosed with aortic dissection during a hemodynamic exam following acute myocardial infarction. With reference to this case, the European Society of Cardiology's latest classification of aortic dissection, published in 2001, is also presented. The patient had the usual risk factors described for aortic dissection, which are simultaneously those for coronary disease.