A Contained Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Presenting with Vertebral Erosion

Chronic contained rupture (CCR) of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) with vertebral erosion is a rare condition. Although it has been reported previously, it is still liable to be misdiagnosed. We present a case of CCR of AAA with vertebral erosion. A brief analysis of similar cases reported in the last 5 years is presented. A 71-year-old male was admitted to our hospital because of severe prickling pain in his left thigh. Computerized tomography angiography revealed an AAA which had caused erosion of L3 vertebral body and the left psoas muscle. An aortotomy was performed, and the excised aortic aneurysm replaced with a Dacron graft. Postoperative computed tomography (CT) angiography indicated a normal aortic graft. The patient was discharged 13 days after the surgery. In conclusion, pain in lower back and leg could be associated with vertebral erosion caused by CCR of AAA. Ultrasonography, CT, or magnetic resonance imaging of abdomen should be routinely performed in cases of lumbago that have associated risk factors for AAA.