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Mycotic aneurysm of the thoracic aorta caused by Aspergillus fumigatus
Chest
|July 1, 1976
Abstract:
A 54-year-old diabetic patient had unexplained fever and embolic occlusion of the splenic, right renal, right hypogastric, right superficial femoral, and left popliteal arteries. Aspergillus fumigatus was recovered from a femoral clot. An aortogram revealed a mycotic aneurysm of the thoracic aorta to be the source of the infected emboli. Surgical excision of the aneurysm and therapy with amphotericin B were unsuccessful.
Insights
A diabetic patient experienced unexplained fever and arterial blockages due to Aspergillus fumigatus. The source was a thoracic aortic mycotic aneurysm, but treatment with surgery and amphotericin B failed.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Fungal infections can lead to serious vascular complications.
- Mycotic aneurysms are rare but life-threatening conditions.
Observation:
- A 54-year-old diabetic patient presented with unexplained fever and multiple arterial occlusions.
- Aspergillus fumigatus was identified in a femoral artery clot.
- Imaging revealed a mycotic aneurysm of the thoracic aorta as the embolic source.
Findings:
- Disseminated arterial embolism caused by Aspergillus fumigatus.
- A thoracic aortic mycotic aneurysm was the primary source of infection and emboli.
- The patient's condition was refractory to standard treatment.
Implications:
- Highlights the aggressive nature of Aspergillus-related mycotic aneurysms.
- Underscores the challenges in treating disseminated fungal arterial disease.
- Suggests a need for novel therapeutic strategies for invasive fungal infections affecting the vasculature.