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Updated: Aug 9, 2026

Microsurgical Clip Obliteration of Middle Cerebral Aneurysm Using Intraoperative Flow Assessment
Published on: September 25, 2009
Mycotic cervical carotid aneurysm
D K Naik1, N R Atkinson, P L Field
1Vascular Unit, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Victoria, Australia.
Abstract:
Mycotic aneurysms of the extracranial carotid arteries are rare, with only 27 cases reported in the English literature. The causative organism is most frequently Staphylococcus but infections due to Streptococcus, Salmonella and Klebsiella have been reported. Escherichia coli has been reported as the causative organism in three cases. Mycotic aneurysms usually present in the setting of generalized sepsis such as postoperative infection, septicaemia, dental sepsis, drug addiction or bacterial endocarditis. We report a patient who presented with a mycotic aneurysm of the internal carotid artery 2 months after undergoing a laparotomy for perineal sepsis.
Insights
Mycotic aneurysms affecting the extracranial carotid arteries are rare. This case highlights an internal carotid artery mycotic aneurysm occurring after perineal sepsis surgery.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Case Reports
Background:
- Mycotic aneurysms of the extracranial carotid arteries are uncommon vascular infections.
- Staphylococcus is the most frequent causative organism, though other bacteria like Escherichia coli have been implicated.
Observation:
- This report details a rare case of a mycotic aneurysm in the internal carotid artery.
- The patient presented with this condition two months post-laparotomy for perineal sepsis.
Findings:
- The case adds to the limited English literature on mycotic aneurysms of the extracranial carotid arteries.
- It underscores the potential for delayed presentation of these rare infections.
Implications:
- This case emphasizes the importance of considering mycotic aneurysms in patients with sepsis, even with delayed presentation.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing these potentially life-threatening vascular complications.
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