Streptokinase in acute aortic dissection.

Abstract

The benefits of treatment with thrombolytic agents in acute coronary thrombosis are well established.''°For optimal effect these agents must be given early in the course of the event before irreversible ischaemic necrosis occurs."Accurate diagnosis in patients with chest pain is therefore essential.We describe four cases of acute aortic dissection in which streptokinase was mistakenly given.