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Published on: September 14, 2013
A rare case of mycotic aortic aneurysm with Clostridium perfringens culture
Niki Tadayon1, Saleh Shahsavari2, Reyhane Yahya3
1Shohada Tajrish Hospital Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran.
Key Clinical Message:
As only early diagnosis, prompt surgical intervention, and appropriate antibiotic therapy can decrease clostridial MAA mortality rate; keeping in mind a broad differential diagnosis in a patient with sepsis and unusual vascular symptoms is important.
Abstract:
Mycotic aortic aneurysm (MAA) is an infrequent but very consequential condition characterized by the pathological disruption of the aorta due to infection. Clostridium perfringens is a bacterium that falls under the taxonomic classification of the genus Clostridium. Although mycotic aneurysm is often not commonly linked with this infection, there are instances when it may function as a causative agent for MAA. Timely diagnosis and thorough therapeutic techniques, including surgical intervention and quick administration of appropriate antibiotics, can potentially reduce the mortality rate associated with clostridial MAA. In this study, we presented a clinical report detailing the diagnosis of a mycotic aneurysm caused by C. perfringens in the thoracic aorta in a 66-year-old male patient with a history of diabetes mellitus and a recent prostate biopsy. Furthermore, we discussed the surgical approach and overall management strategy to address this case.
Insights
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial for reducing mortality from clostridial mycotic aortic aneurysms (MAA). This case highlights the importance of considering Clostridium perfringens in MAA diagnosis and management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Mycotic aortic aneurysm (MAA) is a rare but serious infection of the aorta.
- Clostridium perfringens is an uncommon cause of MAA.
- Prompt diagnosis and intervention are vital for patient survival.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of thoracic aortic aneurysm caused by C. perfringens.
- To discuss the diagnostic and management strategies for this rare condition.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 66-year-old male with diabetes and recent prostate biopsy.
- Diagnosis of thoracic aortic aneurysm caused by C. perfringens.
- Surgical intervention and antibiotic therapy.
Main Results:
- Successful diagnosis and surgical management of a clostridial MAA.
- Demonstrated the feasibility of treating MAA caused by C. perfringens.
Conclusions:
- Early diagnosis, surgical intervention, and antibiotic therapy are critical for decreasing clostridial MAA mortality.
- A broad differential diagnosis is essential for patients with sepsis and unusual vascular symptoms.
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