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Figure 3 Serial X-ray computed tomograms (CT) in a patient with proximal aortic intramural hematoma (case no. 18). Initial CT (July 12, 1999) showed characteristic crescentic wall thickening in both the ascending and descending aorta with a large amount of pericardial effusion. After emergent percutaneous pericardiocentesis, medical treatment was chosen by the patient, and CT (July 15, 1999) revealed development of pleural effusion. The patient’s condition stabilized rapidly, although the amount of pleural effusion increased (July 29, 1999). One month after the event, complete normalization of the aorta with resorption of pleural effusion was observed (August 9, 1999).