Mycotic Aneurysm of the Common Carotid Artery as a Presenting Symptom for Early Colorectal Malignancy

Ann Vasc Surg. 2016 Jan:30:306.e9-12. doi: 10.1016/j.avsg.2015.06.093. Epub 2015 Sep 9.

Abstract

Mycotic carotid aneurysms are rare vascular conditions that are associated with high mortality if left untreated. We present a gentleman who had a progressively enlarging tender pulsatile swelling on the right side of neck. Emergency computed tomography scan showed a large mycotic aneurysm arising from the right common carotid artery, and he underwent emergency open exploration with interposition bypass graft. Bacteroides fragilis species, which signified gastrointestinal-related sepsis, was isolated from the thrombus culture. Subsequently search of systemic septic source showed an early rectal adenocarcinoma. This is the first case in the world's literature of a patient who had B. fragilis mycotic carotid aneurysm as a presenting complaint of his occult rectal malignancy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / complications
  • Adenocarcinoma / diagnosis*
  • Aneurysm, Infected / diagnosis*
  • Aneurysm, Infected / microbiology*
  • Aneurysm, Infected / surgery
  • Bacteroides fragilis*
  • Carotid Artery, Common*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Rectal Neoplasms / complications
  • Rectal Neoplasms / diagnosis*