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Staphylococcal thoracic aortitis complicated by aortic dissection.
Paul Chun Yih Lim1, Jean Mui Hua Lee2, Yeow Leng Chua1
1National Heart Centre Singapore, Mistri Wing, 168752, Singapore.
World Journal of Emergency Medicine
|September 13, 2014
Summary
Staphylococcal thoracic aortitis, a rare infection, can present with non-specific symptoms like fever. This case highlights the importance of timely diagnosis to prevent catastrophic aortic dissection rupture.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Aortitis diagnosis is often delayed due to non-specific symptoms.
- Staphylococcal thoracic aortitis is a rare but serious condition.
- Aortic dissection is a life-threatening complication.
Observation:
- A 73-year-old woman presented with pyrexia of unknown origin.
- Contrast-enhanced computed tomography aortogram revealed ascending aortic thrombus and chronic type A aortic dissection.
- Aortic thrombus cultures were positive for coagulase-negative Staphylococcus aureus.
Findings:
- Surgical intervention included hemiarch replacement with a graft.
- Histology confirmed chronic aortic dissection.
- Intravenous cefazolin treatment led to good patient progress.
Implications:
- This case underscores the challenge of diagnosing Staphylococcal infective aortitis.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent aortic dissection progression and rupture.
- Early recognition of infective aortitis is essential for improved patient outcomes.
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