Aneurysm and dissection in a patient with syphilitic aortitis

Braz J Infect Dis. 2017 May-Jun;21(3):349-352. doi: 10.1016/j.bjid.2017.01.003. Epub 2017 Feb 24.

Abstract

In the antibiotic era, aortic aneurysm is a rare complication of syphilis, what makes the diagnostic assumption even more difficult. Nonetheless, this condition should be suspected in patients with aortic aneurysm. Reports of aortic dissection complicating syphilitic aortitis have been distinctly rare in the literature, and their cause-effect relationship has not been definitely established. In this case report, we present a 62-year-old woman with aortic aneurysm and dissection associated with an unexpected diagnosis of syphilitic aortitis.

Keywords: Aneurysm; Dissection; Syphilis; Syphilis, Cardiovascular.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aortic Aneurysm / diagnosis*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Syphilis, Cardiovascular / diagnosis*