A delayed diagnosis that altered the professional orientation of an athlete with upper limb chronic arterial embolization

作者：Ioannou Christos V^*; Kafetzakis Alexandros; Kounnos Christos; Koukoumtzis Dimitris; Tavlas Emmanuel; Kostas Theodoros

来源：Medical Science Monitor, 2012, 18(1): CS1-CS3.

DOI：10.12659/MSM.882184

• thoracic outlet syndrome
• cervical rib
• post-stenotic aneurysm
• critical limb ischemia
• misdiagnosis
• mistreatment

Background: Vascular disorders of the upper extremity in young and physically active patients present a complex and challenging problem for the treating physician. Initial presentation may often be subtle and the consequences of misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis or mistreatment can be severe. %26lt;br%26gt;Case Report: In this report, we discuss a case of a young woman with chronic upper limb ischemia due to an arterial thoracic outlet syndrome in whom even though symptoms persisted over a number of years during which she frequently sought medical consultation, remained undiagnosed until finally presenting with limb-threatening ischemia. Furthermore, due to this delay, the patient was forced to withdraw from her professional carrier in athletics. %26lt;br%26gt;Conclusions: A thoughtful and through approach combining the history, physical findings, and use of appropriate diagnostic aids will provide the physician and patient with the greatest opportunity for a satisfactory outcome. Furthermore, a delay in definitive treatment may not only cause health deterioration, but may also incur social, economic and occupational consequences.

• 出版日期2012-1