The term AAS128 refers to the spectrum of aortic pathologies, including classic aortic dissection, IMH, penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU), and aortic aneurysm rupture (contained or not contained). Although the pathophysiology of these heterogeneous conditions differs, they are grouped because they share common features: (1) similar clinical presentation (‘‘aortic pain’’), (2) impaired integrity of the aortic wall, and (3) potential danger of aortic rupture requiring
emergency attention.