Very late rupture of a post-traumatic abdominal aortic pseudoaneurysm (2017)

Type of publication:
Journal article

Author(s):
Haneen Abed, *William Robert Ball, *Timothy Stone, *Andrew Houghton

Citation:
BMJ Case Reports 2017:published online 27 January 2017

Abstract:
Post-traumatic abdominal aortic pseudoaneurysms remain a rare yet severe complication of aortic injuries and may present many years later. Clinical presentations vary, from the traditional aneurysmal symptoms of abdominal and/or back pain with or without a pulsatile mass, to a fatal rupture. We present the case of a man aged 42 years, with a history of blunt abdominal trauma 14 years ago, presenting with symptoms of non-specific lower abdominal pain and a recent history of straining due to constipation. Clinical examination revealed umbilical bruising, in keeping with Cullen’s sign, and extensive postsacral bruising. This case highlights some of the atypical manifestations of aneurysmal rupture and the importance of early recognition and management.

Link to full-text: http://casereports.bmj.com/content/2017/bcr-2016-218356.full.pdf