Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 14, 2026

A Model of Acute Lung Injury Following Visceral Ischemia-Reperfusion by Supra-Coeliac Aortic Cross Clamping in Rats
06:50

A Model of Acute Lung Injury Following Visceral Ischemia-Reperfusion by Supra-Coeliac Aortic Cross Clamping in Rats

Published on: August 15, 2025

Pseudoaneurysm of the thoracic aorta presenting as purulent pericarditis and pericardial effusion

J Aranda1, J Tauth, R J Henning

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, USA.

Catheterization and Cardiovascular Diagnosis
|February 24, 1998
PubMed

Insights

A rare case of mycotic pseudoaneurysm in the ascending thoracic aorta was successfully treated with antibiotics alone. This finding is significant for patients with purulent pericarditis and Staphylococcus aureus infections.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Vascular Surgery

Background:

  • Mycotic pseudoaneurysms are rare, often associated with trauma or surgery.
  • Purulent pericarditis can be a sign of deeper infection, including aortic involvement.

Observation:

  • A patient presented with purulent pericarditis and Staphylococcus aureus infection.
  • A 4 cm x 4 cm pseudoaneurysm of the ascending thoracic aorta was identified via transesophageal echocardiogram.
  • The patient had no history of surgical or blunt trauma.

Findings:

  • The aortic pseudoaneurysm was successfully managed non-surgically with antibiotic therapy.
  • This case highlights the potential for antibiotic-only management in select mycotic aortic pseudoaneurysm cases.

Implications:

  • Non-surgical management with antibiotics may be a viable option for certain mycotic aortic pseudoaneurysms.
  • Early diagnosis and targeted antibiotic therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes.
  • This case expands the understanding of treatment strategies for ascending thoracic aortic pseudoaneurysms.

More Related Videos

Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection06:26

Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection

Published on: March 28, 2025

Modified Octopus Technique for Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm04:56

Modified Octopus Technique for Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Published on: August 1, 2025

Related Concept Videos

Thoracic Aorta01:15

Thoracic Aorta

The thoracic section of the aorta begins at the T5 vertebra and extends to the T12 level at the diaphragm, initially progressing through the mediastinum to the left of the spinal column. Throughout its course in the thoracic segment, the thoracic aorta emits various offshoots known collectively as visceral and parietal branches. The branches that predominantly supply blood to visceral organs are termed visceral branches and include bronchial, pericardial, esophageal, and mediastinal arteries,...
Pericarditis I: Introduction01:22

Pericarditis I: Introduction

Pericarditis is defined as the inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, sac-like membrane surrounding the heart. This condition can cause significant chest pain and other symptoms, often necessitating medical intervention. The pericardium has two layers: the inner visceral layer and the outer parietal layer, separated by a small amount of fluid that reduces friction during heartbeats.Types of PericarditisPericarditis can be classified into several types based on the duration and nature of the...
Pericarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests01:19

Pericarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

Pericarditis is distinguished by inflammation of the pericardium, the fibrous sac that encases the heart. It can be acute, lasting less than six weeks, or chronic, persisting for over three months. Understanding its clinical manifestations and diagnostic findings is crucial for timely and effective management.Clinical ManifestationsWhile pericarditis can be asymptomatic, it usually presents with characteristic symptoms such as:Chest Pain: The most characteristic symptom of pericarditis is chest...
Aneurysm I: Introduction01:30

Aneurysm I: Introduction

An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:21

Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care01:26

Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care

Aneurysm management involves either conservative medical therapy or surgical intervention, depending on the size and symptoms of the aneurysm. Conservative management is generally reserved for smaller, asymptomatic aneurysms, while larger or symptomatic aneurysms often necessitate surgical repair.Conservative Medical TherapyFor small, asymptomatic aneurysms, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) less than 5.5 centimeters in diameter, conservative medical therapy is recommended. This...