[Bilateral coronary ostial stenoses with aortic regurgitation in a patient with syphilitic aortitis]

H Tsukui1, E Koh, S Yokoyama

  • 1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Kyoto Second Red Cross Hospital, Kyoto, Japan.

Insights

Syphilitic aortitis can cause severe coronary ostial stenosis and aortic regurgitation. Prompt surgical intervention with aortic valve replacement and coronary artery bypass grafting using internal thoracic arteries is crucial for successful outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Cardiology

Background:

  • Syphilitic aortitis, a rare complication of syphilis, can lead to significant cardiovascular issues.
  • It often presents with coronary ostial stenosis and aortic regurgitation, which can be overlooked.

Observation:

  • A 61-year-old male presented with chest pain due to syphilitic aortitis-induced coronary ostial stenoses (90% and 99%) and severe aortic regurgitation.
  • Diagnostic tests confirmed active syphilis with high titers.

Findings:

  • Surgical intervention included aortic valve replacement and coronary artery bypass grafting using bilateral internal thoracic arteries.
  • Angiographic features included ostial stenosis (>90%) and associated aortic regurgitation.
  • Internal thoracic arteries are preferred over saphenous vein grafts to prevent graft occlusion.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of considering syphilitic aortitis in patients with unexplained coronary ostial stenosis and aortic valve disease.
  • Optimal surgical strategy involves utilizing internal thoracic arteries for CABG and considering retrograde cardioplegia for severe ostial stenosis.

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