Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 14, 2025

Author Spotlight: Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound for Comprehensive Evaluation of the Abdominal Aorta
Published on: September 8, 2023
Lupus aortitis mimicking an aortic intramural hematoma
Andreas Sarantopoulos1, Ioannis Koukis2
1Medical School, European University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.
This case report details a rare instance of lupus aortitis mimicking an aortic intramural hematoma on imaging. Early diagnosis and tailored treatment are crucial for this uncommon systemic lupus erythematosus complication.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Rheumatology
- Autoimmune Diseases
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with varied clinical presentations.
- Small vessel vasculitis is a frequent SLE complication, but lupus aortitis is exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A 68-year-old male with SLE presented with fatigue, dyspnea, and pericardial effusion.
- Imaging suggested an aortic intramural hematoma, leading to surgical intervention.
- Intraoperative findings revealed an 'egg-shell aorta' without evidence of hematoma.
Findings:
- Histopathological and immunological analyses confirmed lupus aortitis.
- The case highlights diagnostic challenges due to imaging misinterpretation.
- Lupus aortitis can mimic other serious aortic pathologies.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the need for heightened clinical suspicion for lupus aortitis in SLE patients.
- Underscores the importance of individualized treatment strategies for rare SLE manifestations.
- Calls for further research into lupus aortitis pathophysiology and management guidelines.
More Related Videos
06:51Author Spotlight: Development of a Minimally Invasive Large-Animal Model for Reliable and Reproducible Cardiovascular Research
Published on: October 20, 2023
06:29Cardiac Magnetic Resonance for the Evaluation of Suspected Cardiac Thrombus: Conventional and Emerging Techniques
Published on: June 11, 2019
Related Concept Videos
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Aneurysm I: Introduction
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction