title: Infectious Aortitis.
abstract: Aortitis is broadly divided into infectious and non-infectious etiologies, each with distinct treatment implications. We present the case of a patient who sustained a type A aortic dissection during urgent coronary angiography for acute coronary syndrome. Clinical findings and events during the procedure raised suspicion for an underlying vascular disorder; however, the diagnosis of staphylococcal aortitis was not made until pathological examination of resected tissue. Clues to the diagnosis of infectious aortitis noted throughout the patient's clinical course are detailed as are potential consequences of diagnostic delays and treatment decisions, underscoring the difficulties in recognizing and managing the condition. In addition, we describe a previously unreported complication of cardiac catheterization in the setting of an infectious aortopathy.
authors: Division of Cardiology, University of Ottawa Heart Institute.
authors: F Daniel
authors: FD
authors: Ramirez
authors: Bruce M
authors: BM
authors: Jamison
authors: Benjamin
authors: B
authors: Hibbert
mesh_terms: D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000784:Aortic Dissection / Q000209:etiology*; D017545:Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic / Q000209:etiology*; D001025:Aortitis / Q000209:etiology*; D017023:Coronary Angiography / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology*; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D013211:Staphylococcus aureus