Plasma concentrations of interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-α and matrix metalloproteinase-9 in aortic dissection

► The role of inflammation in aortic dissection (AD) has not fully been investigated. ► IL-6, TNF-a, MMP-9, and CRP were compared among the four groups. ► Elevated plasma inflammatory markers were significantly associated with AD.