Jonathan Larson
On November 19, 2021 Netflix released the highly anticipated movie Tick, Tick...BOOM, a dynamic biography about the life of Jonathan Larson.
Larson, the brilliant composer of the Broadway hit RENT, died at age 35, from a misdiagnosed aortic dissection believed to be caused by his undiagnosed Marfan Syndrome. Watch the trailer of Tick, Tick…Boom.
Having visited two different emergency rooms over two days for chest pain, dizziness and shortness of breath, Larson was sent home with a diagnosis of flu or stress.
Aortic dissections and aneurysms are detected by echocardiography (ECHO), computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). If Larson had received the proper diagnostic tests when he visited the ER two days before his death, a surgical repair of his aorta could have saved his life.
Because the symptoms of an aortic dissection are like those experienced during a cardiac arrest (heart attack), misdiagnosing aortic dissections for a heart attack or dismissing younger individuals for nausea, heartburn or lifestyle factors is very common in emergency.
Moreover, heritable/genetic aortic disorders (GAD) such as; Marfan syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome, vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and other familial thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissection (FTAAD) put these individuals at a higher risk of aortic dissections. Family history and genetic testing are additional diagnostic criteria to identify risks for aortic dissections. Knowing the underlying genetic cause for aortic aneurysms and dissections helps medical professionals make informed decisions for timing preventive aortic surgery and medicinal therapy.
Larson is one of many others, who are victims of aortic dissection misdiagnosis due to undiagnosed genetic conditions, as a result of limited medical knowledge to carry out the appropriate diagnostic tests and treatment decisions.
GADA Canada is devoted to building knowledge and awareness of aortic dissections due to genetic causes to help prevent such tragic losses of those we love. If you or a loved one has experienced an aortic dissection or misdiagnosis, share your story with us by emailing GADA.
Honouring the legacy of Jonathan Larson in the movie, Tick, Tick...Boom, reminds us how vital knowledge can save a life! Take the opportunity to educate and remind your own network of family and friends of the risks of aortic dissection and importance of diagnosis. Forward this email, share our message on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, or have a conversation in person to help share knowledge and build awareness.
To learn more about aortic dissections and their detection and management Click Here.