A Fatal Abdominal Aortic Mycotic Aneurysm in a Child With Concurrent Pericarditis

Abstract

Mycotic aneurysms, also called infected aneurysms, are localized irreversible vascular dilations caused by arterial wall infection with subsequent vessel wall weakening. They are rare but potentially life-threatening conditions that can occur from bacterial seeding into an intact vascular wall or superinfection of a pre-existing aneurysm or atherosclerotic plaques. Risk factors in children include coarctation of the aorta, in-dwelling arterial catheters, postcardiac surgery, or immunosuppressive states. We report a rare case of an abdominal aortic mycotic aneurysm in a four-year-old patient with concurrent pericarditis. Her nonspecific presentation with fever and body pains posed a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. We discuss the risk factors, diagnosis, and management of this condition.