Tubercular pericarditis with effusion and mycotic pseudoaneurysm of arch of aorta

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Radiology

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) is an infrequent cause of mycotic aneurysms, with documented cases involving the entire aorta.
• Tuberculous pericarditis can lead to severe complications, including aortic pseudoaneurysms.
• Aortic aneurysms are associated with disseminated TB, vertebral or mediastinal TB, and prior TB history.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of aortic arch pseudoaneurysm secondary to tuberculous pericarditis.
• To underscore the diagnostic challenges and critical importance of timely intervention in such cases.

Main Methods:

• Case report detailing a patient with pseudoaneurysm of the aortic arch.
• Review of literature on tuberculous aneurysms and their association with pericardial TB.

Main Results:

• The thoracic aorta is the most common site for tuberculous aneurysms due to anatomical proximity to pulmonary and mediastinal TB.
• Accurate and rapid diagnosis is crucial for effective management and improved patient outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Pericardial tuberculosis can manifest as a pseudoaneurysm of the aortic arch.
• This presentation necessitates a high index of suspicion for TB in patients with aortic aneurysms, especially with concurrent pericardial or pleural effusions.