Bacillus Calmette-Guérin–Related Mycotic Pseudoaneurysm in the Aortic Arch: Clinical and Operative Challenges
Abstract
Mycotic aortic aneurysms following intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin therapy for urothelial carcinoma are rare but life-threatening. A male patient with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin-treated bladder cancer presented with syncope, cough, and fever. Computed tomography showed a distal arch pseudoaneurysm, and positron emission tomography indicated an infection. Treatment included replacement of the aortic arch and the descending aorta and the use of antimicrobial agents. Histopathological analyses confirmed a Mycobacterium bovis infection. The patient died 1 month postoperatively of stroke and organ failure. Early recognition and multidisciplinary management are crucial. Clinical registration number: Ethics Committee of the Medical Faculty of RWTH Aachen (EK 25-341).
Fields of Study & Subjects
Bladder and Urothelial Cancer Treatments
Infectious Aortic and Vascular Conditions
Infective Endocarditis Diagnosis and Management
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Interdisciplinary CardioVascular and Thoracic Surgery
- Publisher
- Oxford University Press (OUP)
- Volume
- 41
- Issue
- 5
- Publication date
- 21 April 2026
- Language
- EN