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Aortic rupture from MSSA aortitis in a healthy 21-year-old: a case report
Johannes Kinzinger1, Konstanze Horke2, Michael Schmoeckel2
1Department of Anesthesiology, LMU Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany. Johannes.Kinzinger@med.uni-muenchen.de.
BMC Infectious Diseases
|December 5, 2025
Summary
This case study highlights a rare instance of infectious aortitis in a young, healthy male, leading to aortic rupture. It demonstrates that this serious condition can occur even without typical risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Pathology
Background:
- Infectious aortitis is typically seen in older individuals with comorbidities.
- This report details an atypical case in a young, healthy 21-year-old male.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present an unusual case of infectious aortitis in a young, healthy individual.
- To emphasize that infectious aortitis can occur without predisposing factors.
Main Methods:
- A 21-year-old male presented with respiratory infection symptoms, progressing to Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia and pericardial effusion.
- Diagnostic imaging revealed aortic arch rupture, followed by surgical intervention and histopathological analysis.
- The patient received treatment and recovered fully.
Main Results:
- Histopathology confirmed methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) causing phlegmonous inflammation of the aortic wall.
- The patient experienced a complete recovery and was discharged after 22 days.
Conclusions:
- Infectious aortitis in young individuals without risk factors is exceptionally rare.
- The unspecific presentation of aortitis makes clinical diagnosis challenging.
- This case underscores that infectious aortitis can develop irrespective of age, pre-existing conditions, or immunosuppression.
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