Tubercular pseudoaneurysm of aorta: a rare association with vertebral tuberculosis

Background contextPseudoaneurysm of the aorta in association with vertebral tuberculosis is a rare phenomenon. With the resurgence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and associated resistant tuberculosis, this life-threatening complication requires greater awareness.PurposeOur purpose is to report the rare presentation and successful management of tubercular pseudoaneurysm of the aorta in association with vertebral tuberculosis, and to highlight the clinicoradiological features for early and prompt diagnosis of this potentially fatal, but treatable, disease.Study designA single case report and overview of the disease comprises the design of this study.Patient sampleThe patient, already surgically intervened, is a 27-year-old male with increasing abdominal and back pain, upper motor neuron signs, and constitutional signs and symptoms.Outcome measuresAt 33 months follow-up, there is complete resolution of the signs and symptoms, and the patient is back to his previous vocation.MethodsThe diagnosis was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging and contrast computed tomography. Endoaneurysmorrhaphy of the pseudoaneurysm along with a complete course of antitubercular treatment was given to the patient, and he has presently been followed up for 33 months.ResultsThe patient's signs and symptoms have been completely resolved without any recurrence.ConclusionDespite the use of modern chemotherapy and imaging techniques, this disastrous complication still occurs and reinforces the need for early suspicion, diagnosis, surgical resection, and antitubercular therapy along with close postoperative follow-up to prevent recurrence. With the resurgence of HIV (and other immunocompromised states) associated and resistant tuberculosis, we should be more alert than ever to this life-threatening complication.