A 55-year-old male with a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia presents with sudden onset of excruciating, tearing chest pain radiating to his back. His blood pressure is 180/100 mmHg in the right arm and 140/80 mmHg in the left arm. A cardiac murmur is noted. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial diagnostic study?
✓ Correct Answer: Option C
The patient's presentation with tearing chest pain radiating to the back, pulse deficit, and blood pressure differential strongly suggests acute aortic dissection. CT angiography of the chest is the most rapid and accurate diagnostic study for confirming aortic dissection.