Syphilitic aneurysm

Syphilitic aneurysm is a medical condition characterized by the weakening and subsequent ballooning of a section of the aorta, the largest artery in the body, due to syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. This condition is specifically associated with tertiary syphilis, the late stage of the infection, which can occur years or even decades after the initial infection if left untreated. Syphilitic aneurysms are a form of cardiovascular syphilis, which affects the heart and blood vessels.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Syphilitic aneurysms result from the chronic inflammation associated with tertiary syphilis. The Treponema pallidum bacterium causes damage to the aorta's wall, leading to the loss of the vessel's structural integrity. Over time, this damage weakens the aorta, allowing it to dilate or balloon out, forming an aneurysm. If the aneurysm ruptures, it can lead to life-threatening internal bleeding.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of a syphilitic aneurysm can vary depending on its size and location but may include:

Chest pain
Back pain
A cough
Shortness of breath
Difficulty swallowing

In some cases, syphilitic aneurysms may not cause any symptoms until they become very large or rupture.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of a syphilitic aneurysm involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. A history of syphilis infection is a critical clue. Imaging tests such as echocardiography, CT scan, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) can help visualize the aneurysm's size and location. Blood tests for syphilis, such as the rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test or the fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption (FTA-ABS) test, can confirm a current or past infection.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for syphilitic aneurysm typically involves managing the syphilis infection and addressing the aneurysm itself. Antibiotics, particularly penicillin, are used to treat the syphilis infection. The approach to treating the aneurysm may vary depending on its size and the risk of rupture. Options include surgical repair or replacement of the affected section of the aorta and endovascular procedures, such as the placement of a stent-graft.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Prevention of syphilitic aneurysm involves the prevention of syphilis infection through safe sexual practices and early treatment of syphilis infections to prevent progression to tertiary syphilis.