Pseudoaneurysmal formation in abdominal aorta associated with Escherichia coli infection

Abstract

Early and accurate diagnosis of infective aortic aneurysms (IAA) is critical for adequate treatment to optimize patient outcome. We report the case of an 84-year-old man who complained of severe back pain with high fever and was finally diagnosed as Escherichia coli-related IAA. Computed tomography showed a periaortic soft tissue density and irregular fringe adjacent to the non-dilated abdominal aorta suggesting the presence of pseudoaneurysm. In addition to intravenous antibiotic injection, an aneurysmectomy with extensive debridement and an in situ graft, were successfully performed. The case emphasizes the potential for rapid IAA change and the need for frequent radiologic follow-up. © 2011 The Japanese Society of Internal Medicine.