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Calcified aortic plug syndrome
Insights
This study describes a rare form of atherosclerosis in five women, presenting as obstructive aortic lesions causing hypertension and reduced pulses. Surgical intervention confirmed atherosclerosis as the cause of these rare aortic blockages.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Vascular Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Atherosclerosis is a common vascular disease, but rare manifestations can pose diagnostic challenges.
- Understanding atypical presentations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
Observation:
- Five female patients presented with unusual symptoms including upper extremity hypertension and diminished femoral pulses.
- Radiographic and arteriographic imaging revealed focal, calcified, obstructive lesions in the thoracic and abdominal aorta.
Findings:
- These lesions mimicked a functional coarctation of the aorta, impacting blood flow.
- Three patients experienced intermittent claudication, and three had visceral artery involvement.
- Surgical confirmation (endarterectomy or bypass) diagnosed atherosclerosis in four patients.
Implications:
- This case series highlights an extremely rare manifestation of atherosclerosis requiring advanced imaging and surgical consideration.
- Recognizing this pattern is vital for differentiating it from other aortic pathologies and ensuring appropriate patient management.
Abstract:
Five women are described with an extremely rare manifestation of atherosclerosis. All presented with upper extremity hypertension and diminished femoral pulses. Three had intermittent claudication. Plain radiography and arteriography demonstrated focal, heavily calcified, mass-like, obstructing lesions that caused a functional coarctation of the aorta. These lesions involved both the thoracic and abdominal aorta. Three patients had visceral artery involvement. Atherosclerosis was diagnosed in the four patients who underwent endarterectomy or bypass surgery.